Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1 Summary

Plot Points and Events

• The chapter opens in Jiajiang Garden, the wealthy Lu family’s villa district, where the family gathers for an unusually tense meeting.
• Lu Qi is summoned by his father, Mr. Lu, and assumes the meeting may concern a divorce between Mr. Lu and Ms. Li, his stepmother. Despite being his stepmother, Lu Qi considers Ms. Li closer to him than his strict, emotionally distant father.
• The meeting’s true purpose is revealed: Lu Yang, the Lu family’s youngest son who disappeared as a three-year-old, has been found alive.
• Lu Yang vanished years earlier after a nanny kidnapped him from a park. The nanny later committed suicide, and investigators believed Lu Yang had likely been abandoned and killed. His disappearance devastated the family, particularly Ms. Li, who blamed Mr. Lu for the incident and became emotionally distant from him.
• Mr. Lu explains that the missing child is now living in Mountain City under the name Lu Yao. He shows the family photographs of the young man, who appears handsome, aloof, and striking despite wearing an ordinary school uniform.
• The family learns that Lu Yao has not lived well since his disappearance. After reading the investigation report, Ms. Li becomes determined to find him and bring him home.
• Mr. Lu arranges for the family to travel by private jet to Mountain City. They arrive after dark, eager and anxious to reunite with Lu Yao.

Character Developments

• Lu Qi: Initially sarcastic and rebellious toward his father, Lu Qi reveals deep affection for Ms. Li and concern over the possibility of losing her. He is shocked and relieved to learn that Lu Yang survived. He becomes emotionally supportive of Ms. Li, reassuring her that the future can still be changed.
• Ms. Li: Presented as a powerful, independent fashion executive, Ms. Li is also shown to carry profound guilt and grief over Lu Yang’s disappearance. The news that he is alive causes her emotional defenses to collapse, replacing years of resentment with an urgent desire to protect and recover him.
• Mr. Lu: Though stern and commanding toward Lu Qi, Mr. Lu has never stopped searching for Lu Yang. His serious demeanor reflects the burden of guilt and responsibility he has carried since the child’s disappearance. He takes practical action by gathering evidence and arranging immediate travel.
• Lu Yang/Lu Yao: Although he does not appear directly in the present timeline, the photographs and investigation report portray him as a handsome, distant young man whose difficult upbringing has shaped him into someone isolated and emotionally guarded.

Significant Themes

• Family, loss, and reunion: The family has been emotionally fractured by Lu Yang’s disappearance, and his survival offers the possibility of healing.
• Guilt and unresolved grief: Ms. Li’s anger toward Mr. Lu stems from the trauma of losing their child, while Mr. Lu’s actions suggest he has carried his own silent guilt.
• Hope after despair: The family had gradually accepted that Lu Yang might be dead, making the discovery that he is alive a dramatic restoration of hope.
• Identity and belonging: Lu Yang’s new name and life as Lu Yao raise questions about whether he will recognize or accept the wealthy family he originally came from.
• Class and privilege: The Lu family’s wealth gives them enormous influence and resources, but it could not prevent tragedy or erase the emotional consequences of their loss.

Character Interactions

• Lu Qi exchanges sarcastic remarks with his father, highlighting their strained, authoritarian relationship.
• Ms. Li gently corrects Lu Qi’s posture, showing the warmth and trust between them, while Lu Qi responds more readily to her tenderness than to his father’s commands.
• Mr. Lu and Ms. Li’s tense reunion reflects years of unresolved resentment, despite their past romance and continued attachment.
• Upon hearing Lu Yang is alive, Ms. Li and Lu Qi react with shock and fear, initially assuming the family has found his body.
• Lu Qi comforts Ms. Li as she struggles to read the investigative report, promising that Lu Yang’s future can still be better.
• The chapter ends with the family united by a shared purpose: finding Lu Yao and bringing him back home.

Chapter 2 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• In a Mountain City alley during an approaching storm, Lu Yao and his classmate Lin Gejie are confronted by Huang Li and several lackeys.
• The conflict begins when Lin Gejie accidentally bumps into Huang Li. Although Lin apologizes, Huang’s group attacks him immediately.
• Lin fights back, and Lu Yao joins to protect his deskmate. Huang, unable to defeat Lu Yao, pulls a knife and slashes Lu across the face.
• Huang reveals that his hostility stems from jealousy: the school beauty rejected him because she likes Lu Yao. Huang had already tried and failed to beat Lu alone, so he brought reinforcements.
• Lu offers to remain behind if Huang lets Lin leave, but Lin refuses to abandon him. Huang instead insists on attacking both of them.
• Huang mocks Lu’s dead adoptive parents, but Lu remains outwardly calm. Lin angrily defends him.
• As the rain begins, the fight resumes. Lu protects Lin, gives him a baseball bat, and then defeats Huang and his group with superior speed and fighting ability.
• Huang threatens revenge before fleeing, followed by his lackeys.
• Afterward, Lu senses something unusual. At the alley entrance, he hears a sound from a discarded cardboard box and turns back to investigate, with Lin following.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao is shown to be calm, highly capable, and physically skilled. Despite being mocked about his tragic past, he refuses to lose control. His priority is protecting Lin and finishing the fight quickly so he can return to his power-leveling job.
• Lin Gejie proves loyal and courageous. Although he feels guilty for involving Lu, he refuses to leave him alone against Huang’s group and actively helps by wielding the baseball bat.
• Huang Li is established as arrogant, vindictive, cowardly, and dependent on wealth, influence, and numbers. His jealousy over the school beauty’s rejection drives his attacks on Lu, while his threats collapse once he is defeated.

Significant Themes

• Loyalty and friendship: Lin refuses to abandon Lu, while Lu repeatedly shields and protects Lin.
• Bullying and abuse of power: Huang uses his family’s influence and a group of followers to intimidate others, but his apparent superiority is exposed as weakness.
• Resilience amid trauma: Lu has endured parental abuse, social gossip, bereavement, and inherited debt, yet remains composed and self-reliant.
• Appearance versus reality: Huang appears powerful because of his connections and followers, while Lu’s quiet demeanor conceals his considerable strength.
• Social prejudice and scapegoating: Lu is unfairly labeled a “harbinger of disaster” because of his adoptive parents’ deaths, despite having no responsibility for them.

Character Interactions

• Lu and Lin’s relationship develops from classmates and deskmates into a trusting friendship based on mutual protection.
• Huang’s jealousy creates a personal rivalry with Lu, whom he sees as competition for the school beauty’s affection.
• Lin directly confronts Huang’s cruelty when he insults Lu’s family, showing that he values Lu more than his fear of the larger group.
• The chapter ends with Lu and Lin united once more, investigating the mysterious sound from the cardboard box.

Chapter 3 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Yao and Lin Gejie discover a rain-soaked American kitten abandoned in a cardboard box.
• Although Lu Yao initially tries to leave it behind, the kitten’s cries and Lin Gejie’s warning that it could become ill or die in the rain persuade him to take it home.
• Lu Yao protects the kitten from the rain using Lin Gejie’s sun-protection jacket and buys an umbrella and pet goat milk powder at a convenience store.
• At the store, the hungry kitten begins meowing. Clerk Shen Feifei offers warm water and disposable cups so Lu Yao can feed it immediately.
• After feeding the kitten, Shen Feifei asks for Lu Yao’s WeChat, but he politely refuses because he does not want to encourage someone when he cannot return her feelings.
• On the way home, a young boy gives Lu Yao a box of bandages from an unknown person, who apparently knows about the cut on Lu Yao’s face and is concerned about his safety.
• Lu Yao applies a bandage, while the mysterious person watches from a luxurious black sedan, amused by his appearance.

Character Development

• Lu Yao: His normally cold and distant exterior gives way to a caring, gentle side. He becomes attached to the kitten, willingly spends money on it, protects it from the rain, and smiles while feeding it. He is also considerate and principled, refusing Shen Feifei’s contact information rather than misleading her.
• Lin Gejie: Acts as Lu Yao’s supportive friend and comic foil. He recognizes Lu Yao’s soft spot for the kitten, offers practical help, and teases him about attracting romantic attention.
• Shen Feifei: Quickly develops a strong crush on Lu Yao after seeing him at the store. She overcomes her shyness to help feed the kitten and ask for his WeChat, though she accepts his refusal gracefully.
• The kitten: Establishes an immediate bond with Lu Yao, repeatedly calling him back and becoming increasingly lively and affectionate in his presence.
• The mysterious observer: Remains unidentified but clearly watches Lu Yao closely and shows concern for his injury, suggesting a developing connection or romantic interest.

Significant Themes

• Compassion beneath a cold exterior: Lu Yao’s treatment of the kitten reveals that his apparent aloofness hides deep tenderness.
• Responsibility and kindness: He chooses to care for a vulnerable animal despite financial limitations and inconvenience.
• Romantic attraction and boundaries: Shen Feifei’s immediate infatuation contrasts with Lu Yao’s emotionally restrained but honest rejection.
• Mystery and foreshadowing: The anonymous bandages and unseen benefactor suggest that someone has been observing Lu Yao and may become important later.
• Appearance versus reality: Lu Yao appears intimidating and emotionless, yet behaves gently toward the kitten and thoughtfully toward others.

Character Interactions

• Lu Yao and the kitten form a playful, affectionate connection, with the kitten persistently meowing whenever he tries to leave.
• Lin Gejie notices Lu Yao’s unusual tenderness and jokes about the kitten being more important than people.
• Shen Feifei becomes captivated by Lu Yao’s appearance, then interacts with him through her practical help feeding the kitten.
• Lin Gejie teases Lu Yao about Shen Feifei’s interest, while Lu Yao explains his belief that people should not be given false hope.
• The unnamed person indirectly interacts with Lu Yao by sending bandages through a child, ending the chapter with a suggestive, watchful presence.

Chapter 4 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Father Lu, Ms. Li, and Lu Qi arrive in Mountain City late at night to meet Lu Yao, their biological son and half-brother. They decide not to disturb him and spend a restless night at a nearby budget hotel.
• Lu Yao once again experiences the recurring dream that reveals the plot of the novel’s original world. In it, the original Lu Yao becomes obsessed with the heroine, repeatedly clashes with Lu Qi, is rejected and expelled from the Lu family, and eventually commits suicide by jumping from a rooftop.
• Lu Yao suspects that the mysterious blue orb accompanying him in the dream is responsible for showing him this story, but it refuses to explain itself.
• After waking, Lu Yao reaffirms that he has no intention of returning to the Lu family or repeating the tragic fate of the original character.
• His new kitten, Milk, provides him with comfort and affection. While preparing formula for it, Lu Yao hears the doorbell.
• Father Lu, Ms. Li, and Lu Qi are waiting outside. Lu Qi, nervous and exhausted from anticipation, squats by the door and falls backward when Lu Yao unexpectedly opens it.
• Lu Yao allows them inside. Father Lu explains the truth about Lu Yao’s identity and presents a paternity test as proof.
• Despite their efforts, Lu Yao calmly refuses to return to the Lu family. The family is shocked and deeply hurt, though Ms. Li stops Lu Qi from pressuring him.
• Father Lu leaves their contact information and departs with Ms. Li and Lu Qi. Lu Yao watches them leave from his window, while Father Lu notices him watching and gains hope that Lu Yao may not be entirely indifferent to them.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Becomes increasingly determined to avoid the novel’s predetermined tragedy. Although he appears cold and independent, his nervousness around his biological parents and his decision to watch them leave reveal hidden curiosity and emotional vulnerability. His affection for Milk also shows his capacity for tenderness.
• Father Lu: Maintains a composed exterior but is deeply anxious and emotional. He takes responsibility for explaining Lu Yao’s origins and leaves contact information rather than forcing a reunion. Seeing Lu Yao at the window gives him hope.
• Ms. Li: Struggles to control her grief and guilt over losing Lu Yao. She is overwhelmed upon seeing him but restrains herself to avoid making him uncomfortable or burdening him emotionally.
• Lu Qi: Eager to meet and impress his younger brother, but his carefully planned introduction fails comically. He is surprised and upset by Lu Yao’s refusal to return and shows jealousy toward Milk for receiving Lu Yao’s affection.
• Milk: Acts as a source of warmth and emotional comfort for Lu Yao, helping ease his irritation and tension.

Significant Themes

• Fate versus free will: Lu Yao knows the tragic “original plot” and intends to resist it rather than accept the fate assigned to him.
• Family and abandonment: The chapter explores the pain caused by Lu Yao’s disappearance, the Lu family’s regret, and his reluctance to accept people who failed to protect him in the past.
• Emotional self-protection: Lu Yao rejects the Lu family partly because he fears repeating the painful story he has seen in his dreams.
• First impressions and hidden vulnerability: The family’s first meeting is awkward and emotionally charged, but small details—Lu Qi’s embarrassment, Ms. Li’s tears, and Lu Yao watching from the window—reveal feelings beneath their restrained behavior.
• The unreliability of the original narrative: Lu Yao views the novel’s characters and plot as absurd, suggesting that the real-world versions of these people may not behave exactly as the book predicted.

Character Interactions

• The family’s first encounter with Lu Yao is tense but softened by Lu Qi’s accidental fall at the doorway.
• Father Lu and Ms. Li attempt to approach Lu Yao carefully, while Lu Yao remains guarded and emotionally distant.
• Ms. Li prevents Lu Qi from aggressively questioning Lu Yao after his refusal, prioritizing Lu Yao’s comfort.
• Lu Yao silently observes the family after they leave, and Father Lu catches him at the window. This brief exchange suggests that, despite his rejection, Lu Yao may be curious about forming a relationship with them.

Chapter 5 Summary

Plot and Major Events

• On Monday morning, Lu Yao finds Huang Li occupying his seat and confronting him smugly. Lu Yao intimidates him into leaving, after which Huang Li announces that Vice Principal Chen—nicknamed “Old Chenpi”—has summoned Lu Yao and intends to expel him.
• Huang Li’s parents have provided the vice principal with an injury report and edited surveillance footage designed to make it appear that Lu Yao bullied Huang Li. Although the evidence is incomplete and suspicious, Vice Principal Chen accepts it because Huang Li’s family has influence and has likely offered him political benefits.
• Lu Yao’s homeroom teacher, Old Liu, challenges the decision and points out that the footage may have been edited. Chen angrily accuses him of defending school bullying and violating professional ethics, revealing how determined he is to protect Huang Li.
• Lu Yao realizes that the decision has already been made and that arguing will accomplish nothing. He understands that Chen is helping Huang Li because Huang Li’s relative in the Education Bureau may assist Chen in obtaining the school principal’s position.
• Despite Old Liu’s repeated objections, Lu Yao is forced to withdraw from school. Before leaving, Lu Yao sarcastically wishes Vice Principal Chen a “speedy promotion,” provoking Chen’s anger.
• Old Liu comforts Lu Yao afterward and promises to help him find another school. Lu Yao reassures him that he will find a way to resolve the situation and hints that he plans to gather evidence before retaliating.
• Back in class, Huang Li boasts about driving Lu Yao away, though he remains cowardly in Lu Yao’s presence. Lin Gejie follows Lu Yao out and worries about him, but Lu Yao remains confident and tells him to return to class.
• News of Lu Yao’s expulsion spreads throughout the school. Students, especially the girls who admire him, flood the anonymous school forum with criticism of Huang Li and Vice Principal Chen. They reveal that Huang Li’s hostility originated from jealousy after a girl rejected him.
• The teachers are also shocked by Lu Yao’s withdrawal. They remember him as an academically gifted but unusual student who writes only final answers on exams, even for questions requiring detailed calculations.
• Old Liu once tried to correct this habit, but Lu Yao proved his ability by earning a perfect score on a difficult senior-level mock examination. The teachers eventually accepted that his unconventional method reflected genuine genius rather than laziness.
• The chapter ends by explaining that Old Liu had intended to report Lu Yao’s unusual academic ability to the principal but repeatedly forgot because of his workload surrounding the school sports meet.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Lu Yao remains calm, sharp, and self-controlled under pressure. Rather than pleading with corrupt authorities, he observes their motives and begins planning to collect evidence and defeat them decisively.
• Huang Li is shown to be cowardly, vindictive, jealous, and dependent on family influence. He acts boldly only when protected by adults and authority.
• Vice Principal Chen is exposed as corrupt and ambitious. He abuses his authority to serve Huang Li’s family and advance his own hopes of becoming principal.
• Old Liu proves himself to be a principled and compassionate teacher. He defends Lu Yao despite the risks, offers to find him another school, and worries about his future.
• Lin Gejie demonstrates genuine loyalty and concern by defending Lu Yao emotionally and trying to accompany him after he leaves.
• Lu Yao and Old Liu share a warmer relationship than their usual teacher-student dynamic suggests. Their joking exchange about Lu Yao’s popularity briefly lightens the otherwise unjust situation.

Significant Themes

• Corruption and abuse of power: Authority figures manipulate evidence and punish an innocent student for personal and political gain.
• Justice versus influence: The chapter contrasts Huang Li’s family connections with Old Liu’s moral integrity and Lu Yao’s determination to uncover the truth.
• Calmness under pressure: Lu Yao’s refusal to panic highlights his confidence and strategic intelligence.
• Hidden ability and misunderstood genius: Lu Yao’s unusual exam style causes teachers to misunderstand him, but his perfect score proves that unconventional behavior does not indicate incompetence.
• Loyalty and support: Old Liu and Lin Gejie stand by Lu Yao, showing that genuine relationships matter more than the school’s official judgment.
• Public opinion and reputation: The student forum quickly turns against Huang Li and Chen, demonstrating how popular sentiment can challenge an institution’s false narrative.

Chapter 6 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Several days after Lu Yao leaves school, his homeroom teacher, Old Liu, tells him that every school in Mountain City has rejected him. Lu Yao suspects Huang Li’s family is behind the obstruction.
• Outside his apartment complex, Lu Yao notices two motorcycle thieves targeting Ms. Li. He rushes to protect her, gets grazed by one of the motorcycles, and suffers a painful scrape filled with gravel.
• Although Lu Yao dismisses the injury, Ms. Li insists on taking him to the hospital. He agrees only after noticing how distressed she is.
• At the hospital, doctors confirm that Lu Yao has only a skin abrasion. Ms. Li’s concern—and the doctor’s assumption that she is Lu Yao’s mother—makes Lu Yao embarrassed but quietly touched.
• Lu Yao escorts Ms. Li back to the budget hotel where she and Father Lu are staying. He urges her to return to Sea City, believing she and Father Lu belong in a world far removed from his own, but she avoids directly responding.
• The following week, Father Lu and Ms. Li visit Mountain City No. 1 High School under the pretext of making a fifty-million-yuan donation. Their real purpose is to learn more about Lu Yao and his school life.
• They discover that Lu Yao is not in class because Vice Principal Chen forced him to leave school based on an unverified video.
• Furious, Father Lu criticizes the school’s treatment of Lu Yao, while Ms. Li reveals that Lu Yao is their son—the child they deeply cherish.
• Father Lu and Ms. Li immediately leave, withdrawing the donation. The principal angrily reprimands Vice Principal Chen, who is terrified after realizing he has offended the powerful Lu family and may have his own misconduct exposed.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Demonstrates courage and protectiveness by risking injury to save Ms. Li. Though emotionally guarded and resistant to parental care, he gradually responds to Ms. Li’s affection, agreeing to seek medical treatment and escorting her home.
• Ms. Li: Becomes increasingly maternal toward Lu Yao. Her distress over his injury reveals how deeply she regrets or resents his past suffering, and she openly claims him as her beloved son when defending him.
• Father Lu: Shows strong concern for Lu Yao by investigating his circumstances and visiting the school. His anger reflects both paternal protectiveness and his unwillingness to tolerate Lu Yao’s mistreatment.
• The Principal: Initially motivated by the prestige and benefit of the Lu Group’s donation, he becomes shocked and furious when he learns how Lu Yao was treated. He places the blame on Vice Principal Chen to protect the school and himself.
• Vice Principal Chen/Old Chenpi: His selfish decision to remove Lu Yao backfires disastrously. He changes from a confident school authority figure into someone frightened of the Lu family’s power and of exposure of his own misconduct.
• Old Liu: Remains honest and cooperative, accurately explaining Lu Yao’s forced departure from school.

Significant Themes

• Parental love and reconciliation: Ms. Li and Father Lu’s actions show their growing determination to care for Lu Yao, while Lu Yao struggles to accept their affection.
• Protection and sacrifice: Lu Yao physically protects Ms. Li, while his biological parents use their influence to defend him from institutional injustice.
• Class and social alienation: Lu Yao believes he does not belong in his wealthy parents’ world, symbolized by his urging Ms. Li to return to Sea City.
• Institutional injustice and abuse of authority: The school expels or removes Lu Yao based on an unverified accusation, exposing how vulnerable students can be when officials act irresponsibly.
• The consequences of prejudice: Lu Yao’s reputation and background lead others to mistreat him, while the school’s sudden fear after learning his identity highlights its hypocrisy.
• Hidden identity and power: The revelation that Lu Yao is the Lu Group president’s son transforms how the school views him, exposing the importance it places on wealth and status.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Yao and Ms. Li grow closer through the motorcycle incident, hospital visit, and their awkward but affectionate exchange afterward.
• Ms. Li’s gentle insistence contrasts with Lu Yao’s emotional resistance, showing his guarded nature beginning to soften.
• Father Lu and Ms. Li jointly confront the school after learning what happened, publicly acknowledging Lu Yao as their son.
• The principal’s meeting with Father Lu and Ms. Li shifts from a business opportunity to a crisis once Lu Yao’s identity and mistreatment are revealed.
• The principal’s confrontation with Vice Principal Chen highlights the institutional fallout caused by Chen’s decision.

Chapter 7 Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Lu Yao remains unaware of the trouble at school. When his apartment loses power, he goes to a nearby internet café to complete a paid game-boosting job.
• Father Lu and Ms. Li find him there. Although their wealthy, sophisticated appearance seems out of place, they are surprised and impressed by Lu Yao’s gaming skill.
• Lu Yao initially loses focus after noticing them, causing his team to criticize him. He soon recovers, enters an unstoppable killing spree, wins the match, and earns the title of MVP.
• While watching him play, Ms. Li asks whether Father Lu would support Lu Yao if he pursued esports. Father Lu recalls his cousin Lu Shenyuan, who became the legendary “God Lu” after defying his family to become a professional player.
• After learning that Lu Yao earns money through game boosting, Father Lu is deeply distressed. Seeing Lu Yao’s independence firsthand strengthens his determination to intervene in his life.
• The three leave the internet café for a coffee shop, where Father Lu reveals that he has transferred Lu Yao’s student registration to Huiying High School in Sea City.
• Lu Yao becomes angry because Father Lu made the decision without consulting him. Father Lu explains that Huang Li’s family has prevented other Mountain City schools from accepting him, leaving him with few options.
• Father Lu promises that Lu Yao may return to Mountain City and leave the Lu family once he turns eighteen, but insists that, as a minor, he must continue his education.
• Lu Yao eventually accepts the arrangement. Ms. Li becomes emotional, and when she begins crying, Lu Yao awkwardly offers her tissues, revealing a small but meaningful gesture of concern.

Character Development

• Lu Yao: Demonstrates exceptional gaming ability and a strong sense of independence by supporting himself. Though initially defensive and angry about the school transfer, he is gradually persuaded by Father Lu’s reasoning. His embarrassed reaction to Ms. Li’s praise and his attempt to comfort her suggest that he is beginning to soften toward his biological parents.
• Father Lu: Moves from simply observing Lu Yao to taking decisive action on his behalf. He is saddened by Lu Yao’s financial struggles and deliberately adopts a firm, authoritative approach, believing that forcefully bringing Lu Yao closer to the family may succeed where passive acceptance would not.
• Ms. Li: Shows affection and admiration for Lu Yao, praising his gaming and becoming deeply emotional when he agrees to attend school in Sea City. She struggles to suppress her feelings in order to support Father Lu’s plan.
• Lu Shenyuan: Though absent, his backstory establishes him as a renowned esports champion and provides a possible parallel for Lu Yao’s gaming talent.

Significant Themes

• Independence versus parental authority: Lu Yao is accustomed to managing his own life, while Father Lu believes his age and circumstances justify making decisions for him.
• Family reconciliation: Father Lu and Ms. Li attempt to rebuild a relationship with Lu Yao, whose initial resentment and distance are slowly giving way to tentative trust.
• Parental guilt and responsibility: Father Lu’s distress over Lu Yao’s need to earn money reflects regret over having been absent from his life.
• Talent and unconventional paths: Lu Shenyuan’s success challenges the family’s prejudice against esports and suggests that Lu Yao’s gaming ability may have significant potential.
• Emotional restraint and vulnerability: Lu Yao hides his embarrassment and anger, while Ms. Li openly cries; their interaction shows the family beginning to express emotions that have long been suppressed.

Important Character Interactions

• Father Lu and Ms. Li watch Lu Yao play and recognize his unusual talent.
• Ms. Li praises Lu Yao after his victory, causing him visible embarrassment.
• Father Lu confronts Lu Yao with the decision to transfer him to Huiying High School.
• Lu Yao angrily challenges Father Lu’s authority, but Father Lu counters with practical reasoning and a promise of future freedom.
• After Lu Yao accepts the transfer, Ms. Li cries, and Lu Yao responds by handing her tissues—an awkward but significant sign of growing emotional connection.

Chapter 8 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin Gejie tells Lu Yao that Vice Principal Chen (“Old Chenpi”) has been arrested by inspectors. The investigation also implicates Huang Li’s father and their relative in the Education Bureau for bribery, corruption, and collusion.
• Lu Yao anonymously sends the authorities the evidence he collected against Old Chenpi and Huang Li’s relative. The documents greatly accelerate the investigation.
• The principal is questioned, while Teacher Liu is recognized positively for defending Lu Yao. Old Chenpi is expected to lose his positions and serve prison time for corruption and for forcing students to leave school.
• Huang Li’s family falls into panic. His mother learns that powerful people are protecting Lu Yao and that no one can interfere with the investigation. She blames and slaps Huang Li, but their attempt to beg Lu Yao for forgiveness fails because he has already left for Sea City.
• Lu Yao prepares to leave Mountain City with his biological parents. His belongings are minimal: some clothes and his kitten, Milk.
• Grandpa Bai comes to see him off and gives the family Mountain City specialties. He tells Lu Yao that he can always return if he becomes unhappy, moving Lu Yao deeply.
• Lu Yao travels to Sea City on the Lu family’s private plane. During the flight, Lu Qi tries repeatedly to make Lu Yao call him “big brother,” but Lu Yao remains calm and refuses to say it.
• Lu Qi bonds with Milk after arranging formula for the kitten, though he ends up humorously arguing with the cat. The incident lightens Lu Yao’s mood.
• By the time they arrive in Sea City, Lu Yao and Lu Qi appear noticeably closer, pleasing their parents and suggesting a hopeful beginning for Lu Yao’s new life.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Demonstrates resourcefulness and quiet determination by submitting evidence anonymously. Although emotionally restrained, he shows deep affection for Grandpa Bai and gradually becomes more comfortable with Lu Qi and his new family.
• Lin Gejie: Remains loyal and enthusiastic, celebrating Lu Yao’s vindication and expressing concern that he will not return to school.
• Old Chenpi and Huang Li’s family: Suffer the consequences of their abuse of power and attempt to frame Lu Yao. Their confidence collapses once Lu Yao’s influential background is revealed.
• Teacher Liu: Is vindicated for standing up for Lu Yao and gains the Education Bureau’s respect for caring about his students.
• Grandpa Bai: Acts as a loving guardian figure, offering Lu Yao emotional support and an open invitation to return.
• Lu Qi: Initially eager to establish his authority as Lu Yao’s older brother, he behaves immaturely and comically. His persistence and playful nature help him grow closer to Lu Yao.
• Lu Yao’s parents: Show gratitude toward Grandpa Bai and give Lu Yao space when they notice his sadness, demonstrating consideration and patience.

Significant Themes

• Justice and consequences: Corruption and abuse of authority are exposed, while those who harmed Lu Yao face punishment.
• The contrast between family and home: Lu Yao leaves the place where he endured hardship but also parts from the people who cared for him, showing that “home” involves both security and emotional bonds.
• Healing and new beginnings: Moving to Sea City marks Lu Yao’s transition into a safer, more supportive life.
• Quiet affection: Lu Yao rarely expresses his feelings openly, but his hug with Grandpa Bai and growing amusement around Lu Qi reveal his emotional attachment.
• Family bonds formed through interaction: Lu Qi’s awkward attempts to connect, along with their playful relationship over Milk, begin transforming the brothers from strangers into family.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Yao and Lin Gejie: Their phone conversation confirms Lu Yao’s innocence and highlights Lin Gejie’s loyalty and humor.
• Lu Yao and Grandpa Bai: Grandpa Bai’s farewell brings out Lu Yao’s strongest emotional response, and his promise of an open door reassures Lu Yao that he will not lose his old home completely.
• Lu Yao and Lu Qi: Lu Qi tries to assert his status as the older brother, while Lu Yao responds with calm indifference. Their humorous tension gradually develops into genuine closeness.
• Lu Qi and Milk: Their mock argument provides comic relief and helps ease the awkwardness of the journey.
• The Lu family and Grandpa Bai: Their respectful exchange shows the family’s gratitude and reassures Grandpa Bai that Lu Yao is going to people who will care for him.

Chapter 9 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• On the way home, Father Lu receives a video call from Lu Shenyuan, who is abroad with his esports team. Lu Shenyuan is delighted to see Lu Yao and immediately treats him affectionately, offering to play Heroes Glory with him and promising to bring him a welcome gift.
• Lu Shenyuan jokingly insults Lu Qi’s gaming ability, prompting Lu Qi to protest. Their playful argument is interrupted when Lu Shenyuan’s teammate calls him back for a practice match.
• Upon arriving at the Lu family home, Lu Yao is shown his carefully prepared bedroom. Ms. Li assures him that the decor can be changed if he dislikes it, but he says it is fine. She gently tells him there is no need to rush into calling her “Mom.”
• That night, Lu Yao discovers a cardboard “Message Box for the Baby” filled with notes written over the years by Lu Qi, Ms. Li, and Father Lu. The messages reveal their continued longing for him, their uncertainty about whether he was alive, and the ways they preserved a place for him in the family.
• The notes deeply affect Lu Yao, who lies awake reflecting on the family’s years of grief and hope.
• The following morning, Ms. Li serves breakfast while caring affectionately for Lu Yao’s kitten. Encouraged by what he read, Lu Yao quietly calls her “Mom” for the first time. Although deeply moved, she deliberately keeps her reaction restrained so he will not feel pressured.
• Lu Qi arrives afterward and becomes jealous when he learns that Lu Yao has called Ms. Li “Mom” but has not called him “Brother.” He tries to attract Lu Yao’s attention during breakfast, but his efforts fail. Lu Qi resolves to eventually make Lu Yao address him properly.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Begins taking tentative steps toward accepting the Lu family. His discovery of the message box helps him understand the family’s enduring love and concern, leading him to call Ms. Li “Mom.” Despite his emotional progress, he remains shy and uncomfortable expressing familial intimacy openly.
• Ms. Li: Shows patience and emotional sensitivity. Though she desperately wants Lu Yao to accept her as his mother, she avoids pressuring him and responds gently to his hesitation.
• Father Lu: Continues integrating Lu Yao into the family and shares the news of his return with relatives.
• Lu Shenyuan: Reveals a warm, playful, and affectionate personality beneath his public image as an aloof esports “god.” He eagerly welcomes Lu Yao and wants to bond with him through gaming.
• Lu Qi: Displays strong sibling affection mixed with jealousy and insecurity. He is pleased to have Lu Yao home but becomes preoccupied with earning the title of “Brother.”

Significant Themes

• Family reunion and belonging: Lu Yao’s return begins the difficult process of rebuilding familial relationships.
• Unspoken love and enduring hope: The message box demonstrates that the family continued loving and remembering Lu Yao even when they believed he might never return.
• Emotional healing and patience: Ms. Li’s refusal to pressure Lu Yao emphasizes that reconciliation must happen gradually.
• Sibling affection expressed through teasing: Lu Shenyuan and Lu Qi both use jokes, complaints, and playful rivalry to show their attachment to Lu Yao.
• The contrast between outward behavior and inner feelings: The family members often disguise grief, jealousy, or tenderness behind casual remarks and humor.

Character Interactions

• Lu Shenyuan warmly teases Lu Yao and Lu Qi during the video call, immediately treating Lu Yao as a beloved nephew.
• Ms. Li reassures Lu Yao that he can adjust to the family at his own pace.
• Lu Yao’s reading of the family’s private messages creates an emotional connection with them, even though they are unaware he has found the box.
• Ms. Li and Lu Yao share a quiet but significant moment when he calls her “Mom.”
• Lu Qi tries to provoke interaction and receive recognition from Lu Yao at breakfast, but his jealousy goes unanswered, ending the chapter with a humorous determination to win Lu Yao’s acknowledgment.

Chapter 10 Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Ms. Li takes Lu Yao shopping for clothes because she believes his closet is empty. Lu Qi shamelessly joins them, claiming he also needs new clothes despite already having plenty.
• At the luxury stores in Taigu Mall, Ms. Li selects numerous expensive outfits for Lu Yao. His striking appearance impresses the sales staff, while Ms. Li and Lu Qi proudly enjoy the compliments.
• Ms. Li and Lu Qi secretly photograph Lu Yao modeling clothes. Ms. Li sends one of the photos to Father Lu and posts it on Weibo with the caption “My handsome young man,” unintentionally attracting considerable attention from people in the fashion and entertainment industries.
• Ms. Li becomes carried away with buying clothes for Lu Yao, touched by the fact that she is finally able to care for him in this way. Lu Yao, who has little interest in material possessions, suppresses his objections when he sees how happy she is.
• After shopping, the three eat at a restaurant in the mall, where they encounter Li Guigu, Ms. Li’s nephew and Lu Qi’s classmate.
• Li Guigu approaches them to curry favor with Ms. Li, believing that becoming her adopted son would give him access to the Lu family’s wealth. He had previously benefited from the Li family’s assumption that Lu Yao was dead.
• Ms. Li reveals that the boy with her is Lu Yao. Li Guigu is shocked but quickly masks his reaction and pretends to welcome him as a cousin.
• Lu Yao detects Li Guigu’s concealed hostility and refuses to call him “Brother.” Lu Qi also becomes visibly jealous and irritated when Li Guigu makes the request.
• After returning to his companions, Li Guigu’s pleasant façade disappears. He informs the Li family that Lu Yao is alive, causing panic and disrupting their plans to seek an inheritance-related connection with Ms. Li.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Remains modest and indifferent to expensive clothing, but cooperates because he recognizes Ms. Li’s happiness. His emotional sensitivity allows him to perceive Li Guigu’s hidden disgust.
• Ms. Li: Demonstrates strong maternal affection and pride toward Lu Yao. Shopping for him becomes an emotional expression of the years of care she missed while he was missing.
• Lu Qi: Shows his usual shamelessness and playful competitiveness by joining the shopping trip. He is protective and possessive of his relationship with Lu Yao, becoming jealous when Li Guigu asks to be called “Brother.”
• Li Guigu: Reveals himself as ambitious, calculating, and deeply concerned with wealth and status. His polite attitude toward Lu Yao is only a disguise for resentment because Lu Yao’s return threatens his hopes of being adopted by Ms. Li.
• The Li family: Their greed and distorted sense of entitlement are emphasized. They had treated Lu Yao as effectively dead and planned to exploit Ms. Li’s presumed lack of a biological son.

Significant Themes

• Family versus blood and inheritance: The Li family views family relationships primarily as a path to wealth, while Ms. Li’s care for Lu Yao is motivated by genuine affection.
• Maternal love and reconciliation: Ms. Li’s enthusiastic shopping trip symbolizes her effort to make up for lost time and embrace Lu Yao as her son.
• Appearances versus true feelings: Li Guigu presents himself as kind and respectful, but Lu Yao immediately senses his concealed hostility.
• Materialism versus simplicity: Lu Yao has little desire for luxury, contrasting sharply with Li Guigu’s obsession with inheritance and social position.
• Possessiveness and sibling affection: Lu Qi’s irritation at Li Guigu’s request highlights his growing attachment to and protectiveness toward Lu Yao.

Important Character Interactions

• Ms. Li and Lu Yao share a warm, increasingly maternal relationship during the shopping trip.
• Lu Qi and Ms. Li bond over secretly photographing and proudly showing off Lu Yao.
• Li Guigu attempts to ingratiate himself with Ms. Li and assert closeness to Lu Yao, but both efforts fail.
• Lu Yao’s cool response and Lu Qi’s jealousy establish a united relationship between the brothers while excluding Li Guigu.
• Li Guigu’s encounter with Lu Yao directly threatens the Li family’s inheritance plans and sets up future conflict.

Chapter 11 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ms. Li’s Weibo post causes a major online sensation, not because of the photo itself, but because numerous famous celebrities, influencers, and business figures comment on or like it.
• Best Actor Lin Shanyuan jokingly teases Ms. Li for remembering her Weibo password, prompting his fans to flood the comments and making the post even more popular.
• The silhouette in the photo becomes the subject of trending searches, with netizens calling it the “most envied silhouette” because it attracted attention from so many celebrities.
• Online users identify Ms. Li as Li Huizhi, the highly influential “Fashion Queen” of Hua Nation. Her reputation and status further intensify public curiosity about the mysterious person beside her.
• After learning about the trending topic, Ms. Li orders her secretary to suppress the search involving the silhouette because she worries that excessive attention could endanger Lu Yao.
• Lu Yao knows that nobody has identified him and is unconcerned, though he becomes embarrassed by Ms. Li’s public description of him as “my handsome young man.”
• After dinner, the crowd outside the plaza briefly separates Lu Yao from Ms. Li. She becomes visibly anxious until she sees him, while Lu Yao quietly hurries forward and shields her from the crowd.
• After the National Day holiday, Lu Yao begins attending Huiying High School. He chooses to ride his bicycle because the school is close to home.
• Lu Yao and Lu Qi’s relationship deteriorates. Lu Yao wants to avoid the original story’s romantic plot and remain inconspicuous, while Lu Qi feels rejected because Lu Yao refuses to acknowledge him as an older brother and wants to keep their family relationship secret at school.
• Angry and jealous, Lu Qi unilaterally declares that the brothers are now in a cold war.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Remains cautious and determined to avoid becoming involved in the school’s central romance or attracting attention. His protective instincts toward Ms. Li become more apparent when he shields her in the crowd. He is also easily embarrassed by affectionate or admiring remarks about him.
• Ms. Li/Li Huizhi: Her enormous influence in fashion and entertainment is revealed. Despite her powerful public image, she is deeply concerned about Lu Yao’s safety and becomes visibly anxious when separated from him.
• Lu Qi: His insecurity and possessiveness toward Lu Yao intensify. He wants to act like a proud, protective older brother, but Lu Yao’s rejection hurts him. His anger leads him to initiate a childish but emotionally significant cold war.
• Lin Shanyuan: His rare interaction on Weibo highlights his celebrity status and his friendly relationship with Ms. Li.

Significant Themes

• Public attention versus privacy: The chapter shows how quickly social media can turn an ordinary image into a nationwide spectacle, while Ms. Li fears that publicity may threaten Lu Yao’s safety.
• Family affection and insecurity: Lu Qi’s anger masks his desire for recognition and closeness, while Ms. Li and Lu Yao demonstrate a quieter, more mutual form of care.
• Identity and concealment: Lu Yao deliberately hides his connection to the Lu family and tries to avoid the spotlight because he fears becoming trapped in the original story’s role.
• Protective relationships: Lu Yao protects Ms. Li physically, while she worries about protecting him from public scrutiny.

Character Interactions

• Lin Shanyuan’s teasing comment sparks playful interaction between him, Ms. Li, and their fans.
• Ms. Li’s affectionate description of Lu Yao embarrasses him, while Lu Qi notices and mocks his reaction.
• In the crowd, Ms. Li anxiously searches for Lu Yao, and he quietly moves beside her to protect her, strengthening their warm parent-child bond.
• Lu Yao’s refusal to call Lu Qi “Brother” and his request for distance at school create the central conflict between the two brothers, culminating in Lu Qi’s declaration of a cold war.

Chapter 12 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Yao arrives at Huiying High School by bicycle, immediately attracting attention because of his striking appearance and the contrast between his handsome looks and his modest-looking clothes and “cute” bicycle.
• Students speculate about his identity, assuming he may be a transfer student from a wealthy family—or possibly an illegitimate son. They do not realize that his bicycle was custom-made by Ms. Li and contains thoughtful details inspired by his pet kitten.
• Class 7, Year 2 continues discussing the mysterious back-view photograph Ms. Li posted during the National Day holiday. Because Lu Qi is Ms. Li’s son, classmates assume the person in the photo must be Li Guigu.
• When Li Guigu arrives, he allows the misunderstanding to continue instead of correcting them. His classmates praise him for becoming famous, and he vaguely accepts their assumptions.
• Chu Jiaojiao offers to help Li Guigu obtain a rare limited-edition Nava watch. Li Guigu realizes she is doing this because she wants to use him to get closer to Lu Qi and Ms. Li, whom she admires.
• On the rooftop, Ye Muqing notices that Lu Qi is in a terrible mood and jokes with him. When Ye Muqing asks who appeared in Ms. Li’s photo, Lu Qi responds irritably, revealing his resentment toward Lu Yao and his frustration that Lu Yao refuses to acknowledge him as an older brother.
• Lu Yao’s homeroom teacher, Teacher Tang, brings him into Class 7. His arrival causes immediate excitement among the students, who are impressed by his appearance.
• Xia Yue recognizes Lu Yao when he enters the classroom. Her system warns her that she previously acted too quickly and caused Lu Yao and the male lead to become suspicious, leading to mission failure. She is now threatened with permanent destruction if she fails again.
• Xia Yue’s objective is to win Lu Qi’s love and seize his fortune, while also targeting Lu Yao because of his unusually powerful fortune. She confidently plans to make Lu Yao fall for her again and exploit him.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Makes his first appearance at Huiying High School. He is unaware of the rumors surrounding him, the true value of his bicycle, and the mistaken belief that he was the person in Ms. Li’s photograph. His appearance immediately establishes him as socially noticeable and attractive.
• Li Guigu: Shows opportunism by allowing his classmates to believe he appeared in Ms. Li’s photograph. He enjoys the attention and is pleased by Chu Jiaojiao’s offer, while understanding the motives behind it.
• Chu Jiaojiao: Demonstrates her continued interest in Lu Qi and her willingness to use Li Guigu as a connection to Lu Qi and Ms. Li. Her offer of the rare watch also reveals her family’s influence.
• Lu Qi: Becomes increasingly resentful and emotionally conflicted over Lu Yao’s refusal to accept him as a brother. His bad mood and hostile reaction show that Lu Yao’s arrival has deeply affected him.
• Ye Muqing: Acts as Lu Qi’s close friend and comic relief, teasing him while also trying to understand the source of his anger.
• Xia Yue: Revealed as a calculating transmigrator or strategist working with a system. She has previously manipulated Lu Yao and intends to repeat the process, but now must act more cautiously because of her past failure.
• Teacher Tang: Introduces Lu Yao to the class as the new transfer student.

Significant Themes

• Appearance versus reality: Students judge Lu Yao by his clothing and bicycle, failing to recognize his true background and the bicycle’s expensive, personalized design.
• Rumors and mistaken identity: The students incorrectly identify Lu Yao as the person in Ms. Li’s photograph, allowing Li Guigu to benefit from a false reputation.
• Manipulation and exploitation: Xia Yue plans to exploit both Lu Yao and Lu Qi for their fortune, while Chu Jiaojiao uses Li Guigu to approach people connected to Lu Qi.
• Family alienation and resentment: Lu Qi’s bitterness toward Lu Yao highlights the emotional tension created by Lu Yao’s refusal to recognize him as an older brother.
• Fortune and destiny: The system’s mission revolves around stealing the fortune of key figures and manipulating the Heavenly Dao, suggesting that personal relationships are being turned into tools for power.
• Social status and wealth: The students repeatedly evaluate people based on their presumed family backgrounds, revealing the class-conscious environment of the school.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Yao and the school students: His arrival triggers widespread curiosity, admiration, and class-based speculation.
• Li Guigu and his classmates: His classmates praise him for the viral photograph, while he deliberately avoids correcting their misunderstanding.
• Chu Jiaojiao and Li Guigu: Chu offers to secure him a rare watch, hoping to use him to get closer to Lu Qi and Ms. Li.
• Lu Qi and Ye Muqing: Their familiar teasing shows their close friendship, but Ye Muqing’s questions accidentally provoke Lu Qi’s resentment toward Lu Yao.
• Xia Yue and the system: The system warns Xia Yue about her previous failure and threatens her existence, while Xia Yue remains confident in her ability to manipulate Lu Yao and complete the mission.

Chapter Summary: “The Transfer Student”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Yao transfers into Huiying High School from Mountain City No. 1 High School. His cold, imposing presence immediately attracts the attention of the class.
• Several students mock him for coming from a supposedly poor, unknown city and speculate that he is an illegitimate child.
• Li Guigu reinforces the insults, comparing Lu Yao to Xia Yue, another illegitimate child who recently transferred into the class.
• Chu Jiaojiao, Xia Yue’s hostile half-sister, deliberately questions Lu Yao about Mountain City in an arrogant attempt to embarrass him.
• Before Lu Yao responds, Jiang Bai unexpectedly gives Mountain City’s geographical coordinates and sarcastically criticizes the class’s lack of knowledge. His intervention prevents Chu Jiaojiao from continuing her provocation.
• Lu Yao recognizes Jiang Bai but pretends not to know him. Jiang Bai is visibly hurt by Lu Yao’s indifference.
• Lu Yao is assigned a seat beside the talkative You Yu, who explains the class’s social hierarchy: Lu Qi is the school bully, while Jiang Bai is the admired “dream guy” whose large fan club makes him dangerous to offend.
• The chapter then reveals the history behind Lu Yao and Jiang Bai’s connection. More than two months earlier in Mountain City, Jiang Bai became lost in an alley and was robbed by street punks.
• Lu Yao deliberately intervened, defeating the punks and recovering Jiang Bai’s stolen phone. He then led Jiang Bai out of the alley before leaving on his own.
• Jiang Bai was deeply affected by Lu Yao’s bravery and kindness, viewing him as a source of light in his emotionally empty world. Their reunion at school is therefore meaningful to Jiang Bai, even though Lu Yao treats him like a stranger.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Establishes himself as aloof, self-controlled, and physically capable. He refuses to engage with Chu Jiaojiao’s provocation and conceals his previous relationship with Jiang Bai.
• Jiang Bai: Initially appears gentle, popular, and emotionally detached. His history reveals that he suffers from emotional deficiency disorder and has difficulty experiencing strong emotions. Lu Yao is one of the few people to have made a profound impression on him, causing genuine warmth and attachment.
• Chu Jiaojiao: Demonstrates her prejudice and hostility toward illegitimate children, especially because of her resentment toward Xia Yue. She attempts to assert superiority over Lu Yao but is indirectly thwarted by Jiang Bai.
• Xia Yue: Revealed to be calculating and manipulative. She knows Lu Yao’s identity and deliberately allows Chu Jiaojiao to antagonize him, hoping to appear later as his sympathetic supporter and win his affection.
• You Yu: Introduced as Lu Yao’s outgoing, overly talkative deskmate. He serves as Lu Yao’s guide to the class’s personalities and power dynamics.
• Li Guigu: Shows his loyalty to Chu Jiaojiao and contempt for Lu Yao by repeating the illegitimate-child rumors.

Significant Themes

• Prejudice and social hierarchy: The students judge Lu Yao based on his background and rumors about his birth, revealing the class’s elitism and obsession with status.
• Masks and hidden emotions: Jiang Bai’s gentle smile conceals his emotional deficiency, while Lu Yao’s indifference hides his recognition of Jiang Bai and their past encounter.
• Manipulation and calculated relationships: Xia Yue views conflicts and emotional support as tools for gaining Lu Yao’s trust and accessing his wealth and affection.
• Fate and reunion: Jiang Bai and Lu Yao’s seemingly accidental meeting in Mountain City becomes significant when they meet again as classmates.
• Light in darkness: Lu Yao’s intervention in the alley symbolizes the emotional impact he has on Jiang Bai, becoming a rare source of warmth and meaning in Jiang Bai’s isolated life.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Yao and Chu Jiaojiao: Chu Jiaojiao tries to humiliate Lu Yao, but he refuses to react, maintaining his composure.
• Jiang Bai and Chu Jiaojiao: Jiang Bai unexpectedly defends Lu Yao through sarcasm, frustrating Chu Jiaojiao and surprising the class.
• Lu Yao and Jiang Bai: Their reunion is emotionally unequal: Lu Yao remains distant and pretends they are strangers, while Jiang Bai remembers their rescue encounter vividly and is quietly hurt by Lu Yao’s coldness.
• Lu Yao and You Yu: You Yu immediately takes an interest in Lu Yao and begins explaining the school’s dangerous figures and social structure.
• Lu Yao and Jiang Bai in Mountain City: Lu Yao rescues Jiang Bai from criminals, retrieves his phone, and guides him out of the alley. This event forms the emotional foundation of Jiang Bai’s attachment to him.

Chapter 14 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Qi returns to class and discovers that Lu Yao has taken the empty seat in front of him. His mood immediately improves, revealing how strongly Lu Yao’s presence affects him.
• During lunch, the class monitor gives Lu Yao a club application form. Huiying High School requires every student to join at least one club.
• Lu Yao looks for a relaxed club and initially considers avoiding serious activities altogether. Xia Yue recommends the Basketball Club, where she is manager and Lu Qi is president, hoping to draw Lu Yao into their circle.
• Lu Yao rejects the Basketball Club and applies instead to Jiang Bai’s Flowers and Plants Club, a nearly inactive club with only Jiang Bai as a member. Jiang Bai is known as the school’s top student and has rejected every previous applicant.
• Contrary to everyone’s expectations, Jiang Bai accepts Lu Yao immediately after obtaining his contact information. He then invites Lu Yao to visit the club’s greenhouse.
• When Xia Yue questions why Lu Yao was accepted while she and others were rejected, Jiang Bai says, “My standard is Lu Yao,” deliberately refusing to provide a conventional explanation.
• Jiang Bai and Lu Yao leave together, leaving the class shocked and prompting widespread discussion.
• Lu Qi becomes jealous and complains that Jiang Bai is no better than him. Ye Muqing points out that Jiang Bai surpasses Lu Qi academically and in several artistic fields, earning a smack on the head.
• Xia Yue is disturbed by this unexpected development. She realizes that Lu Yao joining Jiang Bai’s club differs from the events of her previous life and may disrupt her plans.
• The system warns Xia Yue that she no longer possesses the Mary Sue Buff Aura from her first life and has insufficient points to obtain similar tools. Xia Yue remains confident that she can still make Lu Yao fall obsessively in love with her.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Demonstrates independence and caution by rejecting Xia Yue’s invitation and choosing the club he genuinely prefers. His calm personality and unusual appeal gain Jiang Bai’s immediate attention.
• Lu Qi: Shows intense attachment and possessiveness toward Lu Yao. His happiness at Lu Yao’s arrival quickly turns into jealousy when Jiang Bai accepts him into the Flowers and Plants Club.
• Jiang Bai: Reveals an unusual, personal interest in Lu Yao. His normally exclusive club accepts Lu Yao without hesitation, suggesting that Lu Yao has already become important to him.
• Xia Yue: Becomes increasingly anxious as events diverge from her previous life. Though she maintains a gentle and understanding exterior, she feels resentment toward Lu Yao and Jiang Bai and remains focused on exploiting Lu Yao’s “luck.”
• Ye Muqing: Acts as a humorous observer, teasing Lu Qi about his jealousy but suffering the consequences when Lu Qi retaliates.
• You Yu and the class monitor: Help explain the club situation and react with surprise when Jiang Bai accepts Lu Yao.

Significant Themes

• Divergence from the original timeline: Lu Yao’s decision to join Jiang Bai’s club creates a major deviation from the events Xia Yue remembers.
• Possessiveness and rivalry: Lu Qi’s jealousy exposes his emotional dependence on Lu Yao, while Jiang Bai’s special treatment creates competition between the two boys.
• Appearance versus reality: Xia Yue presents herself as considerate and supportive, but internally she is calculating, resentful, and focused on manipulating others.
• Personal choice and agency: Lu Yao refuses to repeat the exploitative role he held in his previous life, choosing a path that protects his time and independence.
• Power and manipulation: Xia Yue’s reliance on the system and supernatural advantages contrasts with Lu Yao’s growing influence through his own personality and choices.

Character Interactions

• Lu Yao and Lu Qi: Their seating arrangement brings Lu Yao closer to Lu Qi, visibly improving Lu Qi’s mood and intensifying his attachment.
• Lu Yao and Xia Yue: Xia Yue tries to recruit Lu Yao into the Basketball Club, but Lu Yao calmly rejects her offer.
• Lu Yao and Jiang Bai: Jiang Bai accepts Lu Yao into the Flowers and Plants Club and personally takes him to see the greenhouse, suggesting immediate interest and unusual favoritism.
• Jiang Bai and Xia Yue: Jiang Bai dismisses Xia Yue’s challenge with a cryptic answer, exposing his impatience with her and reinforcing their lack of rapport.
• Lu Qi and Ye Muqing: Ye Muqing mocks Lu Qi’s inferiority to Jiang Bai, prompting Lu Qi to hit him and creating a comic contrast to Lu Qi’s serious jealousy.
• Xia Yue and the system: Their strained exchange highlights Xia Yue’s dependence on past advantages and her determination to succeed without the special aura she once possessed.

Chapter 15 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• News spreads rapidly on the school’s anonymous forum that Lu Yao has joined Jiang Bai’s Flowers and Plants Club. Students are shocked because Jiang Bai usually rejects new members, and many speculate that Lu Yao is receiving special treatment because of his appearance or background.
• The forum also discusses Jiang Bai defending Lu Yao in class and confronting Chu Jiaojiao, behavior that seems unusual for him. Rumors arise about Lu Yao’s family and whether he is romantically involved with anyone.
• At the greenhouse, Jiang Bai warmly welcomes Lu Yao by giving him a pot of blooming white Marguerites. Lu Yao accepts the gift despite finding Jiang Bai’s suggestion—that the flowers somehow knew he was coming—unscientific.
• After school, Lu Yao rides home with the flowers in his bicycle basket, while Jiang Bai leaves in his family car and privately reflects that the day has been especially fortunate.
• At home, Lu Yao and Father Lu have a quiet, somewhat awkward dinner. Their limited conversation highlights that they are still adjusting to one another.
• Later that night, Lu Yao overhears Father Lu secretly asking the housekeeper for coffee, despite Ms. Li’s instructions because coffee disrupts his sleep. Concerned, Lu Yao intervenes and has the housekeeper bring Father Lu milk instead, explaining that his father should no longer drink coffee.
• Father Lu is deeply touched when he learns Lu Yao made the milk himself. He photographs it and sends the picture to Ms. Li and Lu Qi, proudly emphasizing that Lu Yao prepared it especially for him.
• Father Lu then posts about the milk on WeChat Moments, prompting enthusiastic—or envious—comments from business acquaintances about their own difficult relationships with their children. He also unexpectedly pressures his secretary, Secretary Chen, to consider marriage.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Though reserved and emotionally restrained, he begins showing concern for Father Lu’s health and quietly performs a considerate act by making him milk. He also starts integrating into school life through the Flowers and Plants Club.
• Jiang Bai: Displays unusual enthusiasm toward Lu Yao, accepting him into the club and giving him a flower as a personal welcome gift. His happiness after meeting Lu Yao suggests that Lu Yao has already become important to him.
• Father Lu: Reveals a softer, affectionate side beneath his stern exterior. He is visibly proud and delighted by Lu Yao’s small gesture, even showing off the milk to friends and associates.
• Ms. Li and Lu Qi: Their reactions to Father Lu’s proud post suggest mild amusement and competitiveness over Lu Yao’s attention.
• Secretary Chen: Becomes an unwilling target of Father Lu’s sudden matchmaking advice, adding comic relief.

Significant Themes

• The significance of small acts of care: Lu Yao’s simple decision to replace coffee with milk becomes emotionally meaningful to Father Lu.
• Developing family bonds: The awkward silence between Lu Yao and Father Lu begins to soften through indirect expressions of concern and pride.
• Rumors and appearances: The school forum demonstrates how quickly students interpret relationships through looks, status, and speculation.
• Emotional restraint versus affection: Several characters struggle to express their feelings directly, instead revealing them through gifts, protective actions, or exaggerated public displays.
• Generational and family relationships: The adults’ humorous complaints about their children contrast with Father Lu’s newfound pride in Lu Yao.

Character Interactions

• Lu Yao and Jiang Bai: Their first club interaction is warm and gentle, with Jiang Bai offering Lu Yao a flower and Lu Yao responding politely but skeptically.
• Lu Yao and Father Lu: Their relationship remains quiet and awkward, but Lu Yao’s concern over Father Lu’s coffee habit marks a meaningful step toward familial closeness.
• Father Lu and the housekeeper: The housekeeper follows Ms. Li’s instructions, but Father Lu attempts to secretly obtain coffee until Lu Yao intervenes.
• Father Lu, Ms. Li, and Lu Qi: Father Lu tries to provoke their jealousy by showcasing Lu Yao’s thoughtful gesture, while they dismiss the importance of the milk.
• Father Lu and Secretary Chen: Father Lu shifts from discussing the thoughtful child to pressuring his secretary about marriage, creating an unexpectedly comic interaction.

Chapter 16 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Yao remains unaware that his father subtly bragged about his children on Moments. At breakfast, he notices Lu Qi oddly switching from soy milk to milk, suggesting Lu Qi may be trying to imitate or connect with him despite their ongoing cold war.
• On the way to school, Lu Yao encounters Chu Jiaojiao, who is already upset after her father once again took Xia Yue’s side. In frustration, she kicks a wall, injures her ankle, and is embarrassed when Lu Yao witnesses it. He tactfully pretends not to notice.
• Two recently released hooligans confront Chu Jiaojiao and attempt to harass her. Lu Yao intervenes by stopping his bicycle between them, claiming his brakes failed and warning that he has called the police.
• The men flee when Lu Yao reveals that he knows they have just left detention. He later admits that he lied about calling the police. His sharp observational skills allowed him to infer their background from their greasy, stained clothing, hairstyles, and the nearby detention center.
• Chu Jiaojiao is too frightened to walk, so Lu Yao offers her a ride to school on his bicycle. Their conversation creates awkward, romantic tension when she mistakenly assumes he is telling her to hold his waist, only for him to clarify that she should hold the underside of the seat.
• Their arrival at school attracts widespread attention because Chu Jiaojiao, a wealthy young lady, has arrived on Lu Yao’s bicycle rather than in a luxury car.
• Xia Yue confronts Chu Jiaojiao at the school gates, pretending to be worried about her disappearance. Liu Hao joins in and accuses Chu Jiaojiao of being selfish, while nearby students immediately take Xia Yue’s side.
• Lu Yao unexpectedly defends Chu Jiaojiao, criticizing Xia Yue and Liu Hao for claiming to worry while failing to contact her. He tells Xia Yue that she should explain herself to Chu Jiaojiao, then leaves, humiliating Xia Yue and leaving her to repair her public image.

Character Developments

• Lu Yao: Demonstrates courage, composure, intelligence, and strong observational abilities when protecting Chu Jiaojiao. Although initially planning to leave, he chooses to defend her after recognizing the unfairness of the situation.
• Chu Jiaojiao: Reveals both her impulsive temper and vulnerability. She is deeply affected by her father’s favoritism toward Xia Yue and is frightened by the hooligans, but she tries to preserve her pride through sarcastic and defensive remarks. Her interactions with Lu Yao begin shifting from hostility toward embarrassment, curiosity, and possible attraction.
• Xia Yue: Shows her skill at manipulating public perception by appearing concerned and victimized. However, Lu Yao’s criticism exposes the weakness of her behavior and leaves her frustrated and embarrassed.
• Lu Qi: His unexpected request for milk hints at a subtle change in his attitude toward Lu Yao, possibly reflecting an attempt to imitate or approach him.
• Liu Hao: Acts as Xia Yue’s defender without questioning her version of events, reinforcing the social bias against Chu Jiaojiao.

Significant Themes

• Favoritism and injustice: Chu Jiaojiao repeatedly experiences her father and classmates siding with Xia Yue, intensifying her isolation.
• Appearances versus reality: Xia Yue appears caring but has not actually taken action to find Chu Jiaojiao, while Lu Yao’s seemingly casual intervention proves genuinely protective.
• Social reputation and manipulation: Xia Yue relies on her vulnerable image and the crowd’s assumptions, while Chu Jiaojiao suffers from her reputation as spoiled and willful.
• Observation and intelligence: Lu Yao’s ability to read details others overlook allows him to identify danger and control the confrontation.
• Emerging romantic tension: Chu Jiaojiao becomes self-conscious around Lu Yao, and their bicycle ride creates awkward intimacy despite their continued verbal bickering.

Important Character Interactions

• Lu Yao and Chu Jiaojiao: Their relationship advances significantly. Lu Yao protects her, notices her fear, gives her a ride, and publicly defends her. Chu Jiaojiao remains verbally defensive but is clearly touched and flustered by his actions.
• Lu Yao and the hooligans: Lu Yao uses confidence, deception, and quick reasoning to drive them away without a physical fight.
• Chu Jiaojiao and Xia Yue: Their conflict reflects the larger pattern of Xia Yue presenting herself as innocent while Chu Jiaojiao is blamed.
• Lu Yao and Xia Yue: Lu Yao refuses to accept Xia Yue’s performance and directly challenges her behavior, surprising her because it contradicts her expectations from her previous life.

Chapter 17 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Lu Yao leaves, Xia Yue attempts to repair her image by pretending that she only advised Chu Jiaojiao to be gentler with her father out of concern for his health. Her internal “System,” however, mocks her failed attempt to manipulate the situation.
• Chu Jiaojiao openly rejects Xia Yue’s claim of sisterhood and harshly insults her, insisting that her mother had only one child. Xia Yue responds with tears, hoping to appear like the victim.
• Liu Hao defends Xia Yue and criticizes Chu Jiaojiao, but Chu Jiaojiao dismisses both of them as a manipulative “green tea” girl and a hopeless simp before entering the school.
• Some students begin questioning Xia Yue’s innocence, with one girl openly accusing her of using her beauty and fragile demeanor to manipulate others.
• Jiang Bai, who witnessed the confrontation from his car, enters the school in a bad mood but quickly brightens when he encounters Lu Yao. Lu Yao explains that he only accompanied Chu Jiaojiao because she had twisted her ankle.
• Rumors spread after students see Lu Yao and Jiang Bai arrive together. Lu Qi is especially alarmed upon hearing that Lu Yao rode Chu Jiaojiao to school, fearing his younger brother may fall in love with her and eventually resent him.
• During basketball and cheerleading practice, Lu Qi repeatedly watches Chu Jiaojiao. She barely notices because she is preoccupied with thinking about Lu Yao’s rescue and defense of her that morning.
• Xia Yue becomes jealous of Lu Qi’s attention and deliberately blocks his view of Chu Jiaojiao by giving him a training plan to review. Lu Qi later relaxes after confirming that Lu Yao and Chu Jiaojiao have had no further contact.
• Meanwhile, Jiang Bai deliberately leaves his car early to create a chance encounter with Lu Yao along Lu Yao’s usual cycling route. His plan is interrupted when he finds a crying child alone by the roadside. Although he initially considers leaving to preserve his opportunity, he ultimately stops to help the boy.

Character Developments

• Xia Yue: Reveals her manipulative nature more clearly. She deliberately plays the victim to gain sympathy, becomes jealous when Lu Qi watches Chu Jiaojiao, and successfully redirects his attention through a fabricated work-related interruption.
• Chu Jiaojiao: Becomes more assertive and openly hostile toward Xia Yue. She shows little interest in Lu Qi’s attention and instead remains mentally focused on Lu Yao’s kindness and protection.
• Lu Yao: Acts discreetly and considerately by refusing to spread the details of Chu Jiaojiao’s encounter with thugs. He also maintains a calm, neutral relationship with Jiang Bai.
• Jiang Bai: His romantic interest in Lu Yao becomes increasingly obvious. He carefully engineers opportunities to meet him, though his plans are complicated by his instinct to help a lost child.
• Lu Qi: Displays anxiety and possessiveness regarding the possibility of Lu Yao and Chu Jiaojiao becoming romantically involved. He also begins paying unusual attention to Chu Jiaojiao.
• Liu Hao: Continues to unquestioningly defend Xia Yue, reinforcing his role as her emotional supporter and protector.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation and appearances: Xia Yue relies on tears and a fragile persona to make others perceive her as innocent, while Chu Jiaojiao’s bluntness makes her appear aggressive despite her justified anger.
• Changing romantic interests: Chu Jiaojiao’s attention appears to be shifting away from Lu Qi toward Lu Yao, while Jiang Bai increasingly seeks Lu Yao’s company.
• Jealousy and possessiveness: Xia Yue resents Lu Qi’s interest in Chu Jiaojiao, while Lu Qi fears losing control over the relationships between his brother and Chu Jiaojiao.
• The contrast between sincerity and performance: Xia Yue performs vulnerability for sympathy, whereas Lu Yao and Jiang Bai’s actions—protecting Chu Jiaojiao and helping the child—reveal their character through behavior.
• Reputation and rumor: The students’ interpretations of the conflict and Lu Yao’s association with Chu Jiaojiao show how quickly appearances influence social judgment.

Character Interactions

• Xia Yue and Chu Jiaojiao: Their confrontation exposes their hostility and competing narratives about family and victimhood.
• Liu Hao and Xia Yue: Liu Hao instinctively shields and comforts Xia Yue, while she uses his loyalty to reinforce her innocent image.
• Chu Jiaojiao and Liu Hao: Chu Jiaojiao ridicules him for defending Xia Yue, making their antagonism explicit.
• Lu Yao and Jiang Bai: They share a friendly conversation, with Jiang Bai subtly showing personal interest under the pretense of being Lu Yao’s club president.
• Lu Qi and Chu Jiaojiao: Though Chu Jiaojiao is indifferent, Lu Qi begins watching her closely, suggesting renewed or conflicted feelings.
• Jiang Bai and the lost child: Jiang Bai’s carefully planned meeting with Lu Yao is interrupted when he chooses to help a crying child, revealing his underlying kindness despite his frustration.

Chapter 18 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Jiang Bai finds a lost little boy crying by the roadside and tries unsuccessfully to calm him. He prepares to call the police, disappointed that Lu Yao has already passed by.
• Lu Yao unexpectedly returns because road construction forced him to take a detour. The boy immediately trusts him, especially after Lu Yao gives him candy.
• Lu Yao persuades the boy to go to the police station by promising more candy, cookies, and milk. When the child becomes tired, Lu Yao carries him while Jiang Bai holds Lu Yao’s bicycle.
• Their arrangement creates the appearance of a close family, which quietly pleases Jiang Bai.
• At the police station, the boy begins crying again, amusing Jiang Bai. Lu Yao and Jiang Bai then leave to head to school.
• Lu Yao offers Jiang Bai a ride on his bicycle. They arrive late and are stopped by the dean, who learns that they were delayed helping a lost child.
• Jiang Bai produces written confirmation from the police station, proving their story. The dean praises them and decides to publicly commend them.
• The school broadcast announces their good deed, causing widespread surprise and gossip. Students focus especially on the fact that Lu Yao rode Jiang Bai to school.
• Online discussions further elevate Lu Yao’s visibility and humorously treat his bicycle as a vehicle for carrying the school’s most prominent students.
• A student insults Lu Yao as an attention-seeking illegitimate child, but Chu Jiaojiao sharply defends him by telling the student to be quiet.
• Chu Jiaojiao offers to obtain a limited-edition watch for Li Guigu as compensation. Unlike before, she does not insist after he modestly refuses, leaving him confused about her changed attitude.

Character Developments

• Jiang Bai: Shows increasing emotional attachment to Lu Yao. He is visibly disappointed when he thinks he has missed Lu Yao, but brightens immediately upon seeing him. He also takes initiative by securing official proof of their good deed and seems pleased by the image of himself and Lu Yao together.
• Lu Yao: Demonstrates kindness and an easy ability to comfort children, contrasting with Jiang Bai’s awkwardness. He remains modest and dislikes the unwanted attention caused by the school’s public praise.
• The little boy: Initially distrustful and inconsolable, he quickly becomes attached to Lu Yao after receiving candy and reassurance.
• Chu Jiaojiao: Reveals a protective attitude toward Lu Yao by silencing someone who insults him. Her behavior toward Li Guigu becomes less eager to please, suggesting a shift in her priorities or circumstances.
• Li Guigu: Becomes confused when Chu Jiaojiao no longer eagerly seeks his approval. His expectation that she would continue catering to him exposes his sense of entitlement.
• The dean: Treats Jiang Bai favorably because of his excellent reputation but accepts the evidence and praises both students fairly.

Significant Themes

• Kindness and responsibility: Jiang Bai and Lu Yao take responsibility for a lost child rather than ignoring him.
• Growing intimacy: Their cooperation, shared ride, and the “family of three” image emphasize their developing bond.
• Public reputation versus personal preference: Their good deed earns public recognition, but Lu Yao is uncomfortable with the attention.
• Social status and prejudice: Students judge Lu Yao based on his family background, while Chu Jiaojiao’s defense challenges that prejudice.
• Changing relationships and power dynamics: Chu Jiaojiao’s altered attitude toward Li Guigu hints at shifting loyalties and family pressures.

Important Character Interactions

• Jiang Bai and Lu Yao: Their reunion brings Jiang Bai obvious happiness. Lu Yao relies on Jiang Bai to hold his bicycle, and they work naturally together to help the child.
• Lu Yao and the boy: Lu Yao wins the boy’s trust through warmth, humor, candy, and physical reassurance.
• Jiang Bai and the dean: Jiang Bai proves their innocence with official documentation, strengthening the dean’s admiration.
• Students and Lu Yao: The student body turns his bicycle ride with Jiang Bai into gossip, increasing curiosity about their relationship.
• Chu Jiaojiao and Lu Yao’s detractor: Chu Jiaojiao openly shuts down the insult against Lu Yao.
• Chu Jiaojiao and Li Guigu: Her restrained response to his request unsettles him, signaling that their previous dynamic may be changing.

Chapter 19 Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Lu Qi learns that the school publicly praised Lu Yao’s bike ride with Jiang Bai and becomes eager to own a similarly customized bicycle.
• He asks Ms. Li to commission a bike from the same designer or brand, hoping people will associate his bike with Lu Yao’s. She refuses because Lu Qi has repeatedly failed to learn how to ride safely.
• Lu Qi briefly considers asking Lu Yao to ride him to school, but Lu Yao immediately rejects the idea. Lu Qi pretends he never intended to ask, though he is clearly jealous that Jiang Bai and Chu Jiaojiao have received rides from Lu Yao.
• On Saturday, while their parents are away, Lu Qi and Lu Yao discover that Milk, Lu Yao’s kitten, has somehow barked like a dog. Milk runs outside and begins playing with a white poodle named Coffee.
• The dog’s owner turns out to be Jiang Bai, who has come to the Lu residence. Jiang Bai ignores Lu Qi’s hostility and focuses on speaking with Lu Yao.
• Jiang Bai asks about Lu Yao and Lu Qi’s relationship. Although he already knows they are brothers, he pretends to be surprised.
• Jiang Bai comments that the brothers do not resemble each other much, prompting Lu Qi to passionately defend their shared phoenix-shaped eyes. Jiang Bai clarifies that their personalities are what differ, and Lu Yao quietly agrees.
• The names of the pets—Milk and Coffee—strike both boys as a meaningful coincidence. Jiang Bai suggests that the animals are “fated.”
• After Jiang Bai leaves, Lu Yao notices a lingering scent but assumes it comes from Jiang Bai’s soap or perfume.
• Jiang Bai’s housekeeper observes that he has been behaving unusually: he recently asked about Milk’s name and adopted Coffee despite his usual dislike of germs.

Character Developments

• Lu Qi remains competitive, impulsive, and easily jealous of Jiang Bai’s closeness with Lu Yao. His desire for a similar bicycle reveals both admiration for Lu Yao and a wish to imitate or rival him.
• Lu Yao continues to be blunt and emotionally restrained, quickly seeing through Lu Qi’s intentions. However, he shows warmth toward Milk and amusement at the brothers’ argument.
• Jiang Bai appears increasingly interested in Lu Yao. His visit, adoption of Coffee, and efforts to connect the two pets suggest deliberate attempts to create more opportunities to interact with Lu Yao.
• Ms. Li acts as a practical, protective mother, refusing to indulge Lu Qi’s unsafe plan.
• Milk and Coffee become a playful parallel to Lu Yao and Jiang Bai, with their relationship subtly mirroring the boys’ growing connection.

Significant Themes

• Sibling rivalry and jealousy: Lu Qi wants the same attention and special treatment that Lu Yao gives Jiang Bai and others.
• Imitation and identity: Lu Qi’s desire for a bike resembling Lu Yao’s reflects his struggle to distinguish himself while also seeking similarity with his brother.
• Growing affection and indirect courtship: Jiang Bai’s behavior suggests he is finding increasingly creative ways to approach Lu Yao.
• Contrasting personalities: Although Lu Yao and Lu Qi share physical features and family background, their temperaments are sharply different.
• Animal symbolism and fate: Milk and Coffee’s connection parallels the developing bond between their owners, reinforcing the idea of an unexpected but meaningful pairing.

Character Interactions

• Lu Qi and Ms. Li argue over his wish to ride a bike, highlighting his stubbornness and her practicality.
• Lu Qi and Lu Yao exchange sarcastic remarks, revealing their familiar but competitive sibling dynamic.
• Jiang Bai and Lu Yao interact comfortably and warmly, while Lu Qi remains excluded and resentful.
• Jiang Bai deliberately teases Lu Qi by observing that he and Lu Yao do not resemble each other in personality.
• The playful interaction between Milk and Coffee gives Jiang Bai another natural reason to visit and bond with Lu Yao.

Chapter 20 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The Lu family watches the Heroes Glory World Championship finals. Lu Shenyuan once again leads his team to victory, securing another world championship.
• During the awards ceremony, he receives a one-of-a-kind Night Assassin figurine, modeled after his signature hero. His rare smile while accepting it becomes a major online trending topic.
• Rather than remain overseas for interviews, Lu Shenyuan disguises himself and secretly returns to the Lu family home.
• He surprises Lu Yao at the front door, prompting Lu Yao to recognize him as “God Lu.” Shenyuan jokingly insists that Lu Yao call him “Little Uncle.”
• Over breakfast, they bond over their shared interest in Heroes Glory. Shenyuan gives Lu Yao the exclusive championship figurine as a belated first-meeting gift. Lu Yao initially objects because of its value but accepts after Shenyuan insists that family members need not be polite.
• After sleeping off his jet lag, Shenyuan agrees to play a game with Lu Yao and Lu Qi.
• His club manager repeatedly calls, pressuring him to livestream and reassure fans who are worried about his sudden disappearance. Shenyuan negotiates three months’ exemption from his required streaming hours in exchange for starting a stream.
• His unexpected livestream immediately attracts huge numbers of viewers. He explains that he left the championship venue because he was eager to return home.
• Although famous as the world’s best ADC, Shenyuan selects a support hero, apparently intending to assist the unfamiliar player assigned to ADC. The viewers react with shock and excitement.

Character Developments

• Lu Shenyuan: Despite his detached attitude toward another championship victory, he reveals a softer, more affectionate side toward Lu Yao. He deliberately returns home early to see him and gives him a priceless personal gift. His playful bargaining with the manager also highlights his confidence and cleverness.
• Lu Yao: He openly admires Shenyuan as an esports idol and becomes visibly surprised and touched by their first meeting. His careful acceptance of the figurine shows both his modesty and his understanding of its significance.
• Lu Qi: He helps create an opportunity for Lu Yao and Shenyuan to spend time together by suggesting a game. He also casually encourages Shenyuan to livestream while playing.
• Lu family: Their enthusiastic support for the championship establishes the family’s admiration for Shenyuan and their shared interest in gaming.

Significant Themes

• Family affection and reconciliation: Shenyuan’s eagerness to return home and compensate Lu Yao for his past hardships shows the beginning of a close uncle-nephew bond.
• Fame versus private life: Though Shenyuan is celebrated worldwide and pursued by reporters and fans, he values returning quietly to his family more than public attention.
• Gifts as emotional gestures: The exclusive figurine symbolizes Shenyuan’s care, generosity, and desire to make Lu Yao feel included and cherished.
• Public image and personal warmth: Shenyuan appears expressionless and distant in public but is playful and considerate in private.
• Shared interests as a bridge: Heroes Glory provides the main means through which Lu Yao and Shenyuan begin connecting.

Character Interactions

• Ms. Li and Lu Qi tease Lu Yao about admiring Shenyuan, prompting Lu Yao to admit that he watches Shenyuan’s matches.
• Shenyuan playfully corrects Lu Yao’s “God Lu” address and asks him to call him “Little Uncle.”
• During breakfast, the two discuss the game and discover their shared experience as ADC players.
• Shenyuan gives Lu Yao his unique championship figurine, while Lu Yao responds with sincere gratitude.
• Lu Qi brings Lu Yao and Shenyuan together for a gaming session.
• Shenyuan negotiates with his manager while Lu Yao and Lu Qi listen, then includes them in his livestream gaming session without showing them on camera.