Chapter Summaries

Chapter 123 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zexi reassures He Jinyun that he does not need to teach him English all at once. Since there are still three months until the Lunar New Year, Ye Zexi is content to learn basic spoken English gradually so He Jinyun will not exhaust himself.
• After the Rain gives the cast an unusual half-day off. Tang Jing immediately realizes that the break is probably related to Ye Zexi and He Jinyun spending time together and jokes internally about being forced to endure their “dog food.”
• When filming resumes, He Jinyun is even more attentive and protective toward Ye Zexi than usual, nearly carrying him to a chair after filming. Tang Jing becomes increasingly exasperated and posts on Weibo about eating dog food every day.
• Tang Jing’s fans quickly infer that he is referring to Ye Zexi and He Jinyun. They excitedly speculate about the couple and ask to see evidence of their affection, but Tang Jing refuses to expose their private relationship or turn his Weibo into a place for them to flaunt themselves.
• As winter passes and heavy snow falls, the production approaches the end of the year. On New Year’s Day, Ye Zexi and He Jinyun briefly return to the Ye family home. Yan Man prepares a large meal for Ye Zexi and packs the leftovers for him to take back to the hotel.
• Back at the hotel, Ye Zexi reads the script while eating snacks. He teasingly suggests that finishing the script will allow them to spend time together in a more “interesting” way.
• The production has been rushing its schedule around the holiday, placing heavy pressure on the cast and crew, especially He Jinyun as chief director. Although Ye Zexi helps when he can, He Jinyun remains responsible for most decisions.
• Because both men are exhausted after work, they usually fall asleep immediately, leaving them with little time for intimacy beyond kissing. Ye Zexi reflects humorously on their enforced abstinence and acknowledges that he has become comfortable with He Jinyun taking the lead in their relationship.
• The following morning, Ye Zexi stays in bed longer than usual. He Jinyun kisses him and gently suggests that he rest at the hotel instead of going to work.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi becomes increasingly considerate of He Jinyun, prioritizing his health and workload. He also grows more secure in their relationship, accepting their physical dynamic without worrying about who takes the dominant position.
• He Jinyun continues to show strong affection and protectiveness toward Ye Zexi. Despite his demanding responsibilities, he remains attentive and concerned about Ye Zexi’s well-being.
• Tang Jing serves as the humorous outsider overwhelmed by the couple’s constant affection. Though he is annoyed by their public displays of love, his complaints reveal how obvious and affectionate their relationship has become.

Significant Themes

• Affection expressed through care: He Jinyun’s protectiveness and Ye Zexi’s concern for his workload show that their love is communicated through everyday acts of consideration.
• Comfort and acceptance in intimacy: Ye Zexi’s willingness to abandon concerns about relationship roles reflects his deeper emotional security and belief that love matters more than conventions or pride.
• Work-life balance: The demanding filming schedule limits the couple’s private time and highlights the strain placed on He Jinyun by his role as director.
• Humor surrounding romance: Tang Jing’s exasperation and the fans’ enthusiastic reactions provide comic relief while emphasizing how visible and beloved Ye Zexi and He Jinyun’s relationship has become.
• Domestic warmth: The New Year visit, Yan Man’s cooking, the snowy setting, and the couple’s quiet hotel routine create a sense of family, comfort, and shared domestic life.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi and He Jinyun discuss English lessons, with Ye Zexi encouraging He Jinyun not to overwork himself.
• He Jinyun repeatedly cares for Ye Zexi on set, while Ye Zexi resists being overly pampered.
• Tang Jing indirectly comments on their relationship through Weibo, prompting fans to speculate about the couple.
• Ye Zexi flirts with He Jinyun in the hotel room, while He Jinyun responds with amused understanding.
• He Jinyun shows concern for Ye Zexi the next morning by suggesting that he take time off to rest.

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zexi insists on attending filming despite being tired, worrying that skipping work again will lead to gossip. He Jinyun supports him by warming his clothes before handing them over.
• As the New Year approaches, the production schedule becomes increasingly intense. Tang Jing finishes filming first and attends a small farewell gathering with the crew.
• Tang Jing teases Ye Zexi and He Jinyun about openly displaying their relationship, making Ye Zexi embarrassed.
• Ye Zexi’s final filming day arrives. He Jinyun has significantly revised the ending of the script, forcing Ye Zexi to abandon his previous preparation and face a more challenging scene.
• The final scene, filmed in falling snow and freezing temperatures, goes unusually badly. Ye Zexi receives multiple NGs—eventually six—despite being known for completing scenes in one take.
• He Jinyun worries about Ye Zexi’s condition but ultimately trusts him. On the seventh attempt, Ye Zexi delivers the scene perfectly in one take.
• Ye Zexi remains emotionally immersed after filming ends and breaks down in tears. He Jinyun comforts him and congratulates him on wrapping, while the crew brings out flowers and cake.
• The four-month production of After the Rain officially concludes. At the wrap party, He Jinyun is heavily plied with alcohol, so Ye Zexi distributes the wrap bonuses on his behalf. They return to the hotel after midnight.

Character Development

• Ye Zexi demonstrates increasing dedication and professionalism, refusing to skip work and enduring the cold to achieve the right performance. His repeated failures unsettle him, but he remains determined and ultimately succeeds.
• His emotional reaction after the final scene reveals how deeply he has invested in the role and the production. His tears reflect both exhaustion and the emotional release of completing a major project.
• He Jinyun continues to show practical care and emotional attentiveness toward Ye Zexi. Though worried by Ye Zexi’s struggles and physical condition, he respects his judgment and supports him rather than forcing him to stop.
• Tang Jing leaves on friendly terms, using humor to tease the couple and lighten the farewell atmosphere.

Significant Themes

• Dedication and artistic perfection: Ye Zexi prioritizes the quality of his performance even under difficult physical conditions.
• Trust and support: He Jinyun’s willingness to trust Ye Zexi during the difficult final shoot strengthens their relationship.
• Emotional investment and closure: Ye Zexi’s tears emphasize the significance of finishing the production after four months of shared work.
• Public affection and embarrassment: Tang Jing’s teasing highlights that Ye Zexi and He Jinyun’s relationship has become visible and accepted within the crew.

Character Interactions

• He Jinyun cares for Ye Zexi through small gestures, including warming his clothes and later comforting him physically and emotionally.
• Tang Jing jokingly challenges Ye Zexi’s claim that they often talk, pointing out that Ye Zexi actually spends more time with He Jinyun.
• During filming, He Jinyun checks on Ye Zexi repeatedly, brushes snow from his hair, and encourages him before the successful final take.
• After the wrap, He Jinyun embraces and reassures Ye Zexi while the crew celebrates around them.

Chapter 124 Summary

• Plot and events: Ye Zexi and He Jinyun travel to the United Kingdom to visit He Jinyun’s mother, Zhuang Lan, during the Spring Festival. Upon arrival, Ye Zexi realizes he has forgotten to prepare a gift and insists on buying one rather than relying on He Jinyun’s present. At a mall, he selects a Bulgari bracelet and two scarves. He Jinyun recognizes the bracelet as one Zhuang Lan had already planned to buy, but chooses not to mention this because he knows his mother will be pleased regardless.
  Delayed by the shopping trip, they arrive at Zhuang Lan’s villa after dark. She welcomes them warmly, and He Jinyun introduces Ye Zexi as “Xixi.” Zhuang Lan immediately takes to Ye Zexi, holding his hand, bringing him inside, offering him hot water, and enthusiastically preparing dinner. After helping Ye Zexi escape her intense attention, He Jinyun takes him upstairs to change. They later return downstairs as dinner is ready.
• Character development: Ye Zexi shows thoughtfulness and a strong desire to make a good impression on He Jinyun’s mother. Although initially anxious and socially awkward, he gradually relaxes after recognizing that Zhuang Lan genuinely likes him. He Jinyun remains attentive and reassuring, helping Ye Zexi manage his nervousness while subtly protecting him from becoming overwhelmed. Zhuang Lan is established as warm, affectionate, energetic, and immediately accepting of Ye Zexi.
• Themes: The chapter emphasizes family acceptance, emotional intimacy, and the importance of sincere effort over formal gifts. Ye Zexi’s nervousness reflects the seriousness of meeting his partner’s family, while Zhuang Lan’s enthusiastic welcome suggests that love and personal connection matter more than ceremony or material offerings.
• Character interactions: He Jinyun comforts Ye Zexi by sharing his scarf and assuring him that his presence is the best gift. He guides Ye Zexi through the shopping and arrival, holds his hand during the introduction, and notices when he needs a break. Zhuang Lan warmly embraces Ye Zexi, calls him “Xixi,” fusses over him, and prepares food for him, while Ye Zexi responds shyly by calling her “Auntie.” Their relationship begins with immediate mutual affection and acceptance.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zexi, He Jinyun, and Zhuang Lan share a New Year’s Eve dinner prepared by Zhuang Lan. Ye Zexi enthusiastically praises the food, especially the soup, making Zhuang Lan very happy.
• After dinner, Zhuang Lan and Ye Zexi spend hours chatting. Their conversation continues until midnight, with He Jinyun eventually intervening and taking Ye Zexi away to rest.
• Ye Zexi is exhausted but resists going to sleep without showering. He Jinyun teasingly offers to help him bathe, prompting Ye Zexi to rush into the bathroom.
• After showering, Ye Zexi neglects to dry his hair and climbs into bed. He Jinyun patiently dries it for him while Ye Zexi clings sleepily to his waist.
• Ye Zexi falls asleep on He Jinyun’s lap. He Jinyun moves him to the bed, tucks him in, and makes sure he can breathe comfortably beneath the blanket.
• Seeing Ye Zexi’s sleeping face, He Jinyun is unable to restrain his affection, ending the chapter on an intimate, suggestive note.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi becomes increasingly comfortable with Zhuang Lan, chatting openly and treating her warmly despite this being their first meeting. His relaxed, affectionate behavior also shows how secure he feels around He Jinyun.
• Zhuang Lan appears genuinely joyful and animated in Ye Zexi’s presence. Her happiness contrasts sharply with the emotional withdrawal she experienced after divorcing He Jinyun’s father and moving abroad.
• He Jinyun recognizes how much Zhuang Lan’s mood has improved and regrets not bringing Ye Zexi to meet her sooner. He also displays his tender, domestic side through his patient care of Ye Zexi.

Significant Themes

• Family healing and emotional renewal: Ye Zexi’s presence helps restore warmth to Zhuang Lan’s life and strengthens the bond between mother and son.
• Domestic intimacy: The shared meal, late-night conversation, hair-drying, and bedtime care emphasize the comfort and closeness of He Jinyun and Ye Zexi’s relationship.
• Affection expressed through actions: Rather than relying on declarations, He Jinyun shows love by caring for Ye Zexi’s practical needs and looking after him while he sleeps.
• Belonging and acceptance: Ye Zexi is naturally welcomed into Zhuang Lan’s family, suggesting that he has become an important part of He Jinyun’s home life.

Character Interactions

• Zhuang Lan warmly serves Ye Zexi food and eagerly converses with him, quickly forming a close rapport.
• He Jinyun watches their interaction fondly, noticing his mother’s restored happiness.
• He Jinyun playfully orders Ye Zexi to shower, while Ye Zexi responds with exaggerated resistance.
• Their teasing shifts into tenderness when He Jinyun dries Ye Zexi’s hair and comforts him as he falls asleep.
• The chapter closes with He Jinyun gazing at Ye Zexi’s sleeping face, highlighting the depth of his romantic feelings.

Chapter 125 Summary

Plot and events

He Jinyun kisses Ye Zexi goodnight and teasingly reminds him to sleep earlier. Afterward, he reflects happily on how warmly Ye Zexi interacted with his mother, Zhuang Lan, and quietly thanks him. The next day, Ye Zexi wakes around noon in Zhuang Lan’s home in the United Kingdom, initially forgetting where he is and panicking that he has made a poor impression by sleeping late. He quickly relaxes when he discovers that Zhuang Lan has also just awakened and had explicitly told them they did not need to get up early.
He and Zhuang Lan follow the smell of food to the kitchen, where He Jinyun has spent the morning preparing lunch. Ye Zexi helps him cook dumplings, and the three later gather for the meal. Zhuang Lan becomes emotional while watching her son and Ye Zexi interact comfortably, though she hides her feelings by claiming she has something to do upstairs. Before lunch, she gives both men New Year’s gifts and gives Ye Zexi an additional red envelope, playfully refusing He Jinyun’s implied request for one. Ye Zexi then remembers that he brought a gift for Zhuang Lan and rushes upstairs to retrieve it.

Character development

Ye Zexi grows increasingly comfortable and affectionate within He Jinyun’s family environment, though he remains adorably anxious about making a good impression. His natural appetite, playful logic, and eagerness to help make him feel like part of the household. He Jinyun appears relaxed and pleased, showing his domestic side through cooking and taking quiet satisfaction in seeing Ye Zexi bond with his mother. Zhuang Lan’s emotional reaction reveals how deeply she values seeing her son happy and at ease after what seems to have been a long period of distance or loneliness.

Character interactions

He Jinyun and Ye Zexi share an intimate, teasing relationship, beginning with the goodnight kiss and continuing as they cook together. Zhuang Lan warmly welcomes Ye Zexi, reassures him about sleeping late, laughs at his explanation for suddenly becoming hungry, and treats him generously with gifts and a red envelope. Her playful favoritism toward Ye Zexi leads to lighthearted teasing from He Jinyun. The three’s domestic interactions create the atmosphere of a close family meal.

Significant themes

The chapter emphasizes belonging, family acceptance, and domestic intimacy. Ye Zexi’s nervousness gradually gives way to comfort as he is welcomed into He Jinyun’s family. Food preparation and gift-giving symbolize affection and inclusion, while Zhuang Lan’s concealed tears highlight the emotional significance of seeing her son loved and happy.

Chapter Summary

• Gift and revelation: Ye Zexi returns with a Bvlgari bracelet as a New Year’s gift for Zhuang Lan. She is delighted to recognize it as one of her own designs. Ye Zexi is confused until He Jinyun reveals that Zhuang Lan is Bvlgari’s chief designer—the connection that helped secure Ye Zexi’s earlier endorsement.
• Ye Zexi’s embarrassment and reassurance: Ye Zexi initially worries that Zhuang Lan dislikes the gift or that he has made an awkward mistake. Zhuang Lan reassures him that she genuinely treasures it because it represents personal recognition of her work, rather than merely being a branded present. She asks Ye Zexi to put the bracelet on her, deepening their affectionate bond.
• Family New Year’s call: Later, Ye Zexi video-calls his father, Ye Jianbin, but Yan Man takes over the conversation. Zhuang Lan joins the call, and she and Yan Man quickly reconnect as old friends, turning the brief greeting into an extended chat. Their interaction suggests a warm history and renewed closeness.
• Romantic teasing: When Yan Man asks when Zhuang Lan plans to return to the country, Zhuang Lan teasingly says she should ask Ye Zexi and He Jinyun when they intend to invite her back. Ye Zexi becomes embarrassed, while He Jinyun subtly tightens his hold on Ye Zexi’s hand. After Zhuang Lan leaves them alone, He Jinyun playfully asks whether Ye Zexi has decided when to invite her, causing Ye Zexi even greater embarrassment.
• Character development and themes: Ye Zexi continues becoming more emotionally invested in He Jinyun and his family, though he remains shy and easily flustered by public acknowledgment of their relationship. He Jinyun is affectionate, observant, and quietly teasing, while Zhuang Lan openly welcomes Ye Zexi and treats him warmly. The chapter emphasizes family affection, emotional acceptance, meaningful gifts, romantic intimacy, and the importance of recognizing personal effort beyond fame or commercial value.

Chapter 126 Summary

Key plot points and events

• Ye Zexi and He Jinyun spend seven days in the United Kingdom, most of the time staying with He Jinyun’s mother, Zhuang Lan.
• Ye Zexi quickly becomes close to Zhuang Lan. Their conversations shift from discussing He Jinyun to sharing entertainment-industry gossip.
• Zhuang Lan reveals that she had recognized He Jinyun’s feelings for Ye Zexi from the beginning, based on his PR team’s failure to deny their rumored relationship. Ye Zexi is embarrassed and distressed that everyone seemed to understand He Jinyun’s feelings before he did.
• Zhuang Lan shows Ye Zexi an album of He Jinyun’s childhood photographs, creating a warm and joyful bonding experience. She also takes Ye Zexi to visit her studio, despite having previously refused to take He Jinyun there.
• When Ye Zexi and He Jinyun prepare to leave, Zhuang Lan becomes emotional. He Jinyun invites her to return home with them, but she refuses, claiming that her work requires her to remain in the UK.
• Their farewell at the airport is painful. Zhuang Lan cries after they pass security, and both Ye Zexi and He Jinyun struggle with their emotions.
• On the plane, He Jinyun explains why Zhuang Lan refuses to return home: she was disowned by her family after divorcing his father, who had married her through a business arrangement.

Character developments

• Ye Zexi: Grows significantly closer to Zhuang Lan and becomes more emotionally attached to He Jinyun’s family. He is touched by Zhuang Lan’s affection and becomes openly emotional during their farewell. His embarrassment over being the last person to realize He Jinyun liked him also highlights his continued romantic innocence.
• He Jinyun: Shows tenderness toward both Ye Zexi and his mother, comforting them during the farewell. He remains respectful of Zhuang Lan’s choices while revealing the painful history behind her estrangement from the family.
• Zhuang Lan: Demonstrates her warm, playful, and perceptive personality. She immediately embraces Ye Zexi and hopes the two will eventually bring her “good news,” implying that she looks forward to their relationship becoming more serious.

Significant themes

• Family and belonging: Ye Zexi is welcomed into Zhuang Lan’s family circle, while He Jinyun’s family history reveals the lasting consequences of broken familial relationships.
• Love and emotional recognition: Zhuang Lan’s observations emphasize that He Jinyun’s feelings were obvious to others, even before Ye Zexi understood them himself.
• Separation and attachment: The tearful airport farewell shows how deeply Ye Zexi and Zhuang Lan have bonded in only a few days.
• Freedom versus obligation: Zhuang Lan’s divorce reflects her willingness to sacrifice family ties in order to pursue personal freedom and reject a loveless business marriage.

Character interactions

• Ye Zexi and Zhuang Lan bond over gossip and He Jinyun’s childhood photos.
• Zhuang Lan teasingly exposes He Jinyun’s long-standing feelings for Ye Zexi.
• He Jinyun jokingly protests Zhuang Lan’s favoritism toward Ye Zexi, but is clearly happy to see them getting along.
• During the airport farewell, He Jinyun comforts both his mother and Ye Zexi.
• On the flight home, He Jinyun holds Ye Zexi’s hand while sharing the painful truth about his mother’s divorce and estrangement from her family.

Chapter 127 Summary

• He Jinyun’s family situation: After hearing about Zhuang Lan’s decision to stay abroad to avoid the troubles awaiting her at home, Ye Zexi comforts He Jinyun by holding his hand. Although He Jinyun initially feels saddened by his mother’s absence, he comes to accept that she has her own life and looks forward to eventually building a family of his own.
• Return home and work pressures: After returning from the United Kingdom, He Jinyun is immediately overwhelmed by urgent work and has little time for Ye Zexi. Yu Ye helps bring his luggage to Ye Zexi’s home while He Jinyun is called away. In contrast, Ye Zexi has an unusually free schedule because he has not signed any projects for the year.
• Ye Zexi’s endorsement: Gao Shu carefully avoids pressuring Ye Zexi into accepting work too soon. Instead, he first discusses Ye Zexi’s outfit for the upcoming awards ceremony and even offers to coordinate matching formalwear with He Jinyun. Feeling that Gao Shu has been considerate, Ye Zexi reluctantly signs an endorsement deal as the ambassador for Bvlgari’s entire product line. He happily tells Zhuang Lan, but forgets to inform He Jinyun, who learns about it last through Bvlgari’s official announcement.
• Ye Zexi and He Jinyun’s relationship: He Jinyun jokingly demands an explanation for being the last to know. Ye Zexi blames He Jinyun’s exhausting schedule, pointing out that they barely see each other. He Jinyun admits that the criticism is fair, then sweetly asks Ye Zexi to accompany him to work. Though initially reluctant and claiming he would rather stay home watching anime, Ye Zexi is disarmed by He Jinyun’s affectionate tone and agrees. His presence in He Jinyun’s office causes the staff to endure another round of their public displays of affection.
• Golden Bird Awards: By the end of February, the Golden Bird Award ceremony is more prestigious than usual, attracting internationally recognized artists and directors. Gao Shu explains that simply attending will improve Ye Zexi’s negotiating position, though Ye Zexi questions whether he needs to negotiate at all after turning down major directors Chen Zhengtian and Li Kai. Despite expectations that he might merely make an appearance, Ye Zexi unexpectedly wins two awards.
• Chapter ending: The chapter closes as the cast and crew of The Famous General arrive on the red carpet. Fans and livestream viewers erupt with excitement, especially at Ye Zexi’s appearance.

Key Themes

• Accepting complicated family relationships and moving toward one’s own future.
• Balancing demanding careers with romantic intimacy.
• Ye Zexi’s growing independence and professional prestige.
• The playful, affectionate dynamic between Ye Zexi and He Jinyun.

Chapter Summary

Plot and key events

• He Jinyun and Ye Zexi arrive together at an awards ceremony in the same car, despite He Jinyun supposedly being scheduled to walk the red carpet alone.
• He Jinyun helps Ye Zexi out of the car, and they cross the red carpet holding hands, causing an immediate frenzy among fans, reporters, and livestream viewers.
• Instead of leaving after signing and posing, they remain together for photographs. He Jinyun intentionally raises and shakes their joined hands, enthusiastically encouraging the public’s interest in their relationship.
• Fans and the host begin chanting for them to kiss. He Jinyun teasingly asks Ye Zexi whether they should fulfill the request.
• Embarrassed and irritated by He Jinyun’s obvious prompting, Ye Zexi grabs him by the collar and kisses him, then immediately tries to leave.
• The crowd erupts. He Jinyun is briefly stunned but happily follows Ye Zexi, takes his hand again, and refuses to let go.
• Inside the venue, other guests stare at them after hearing what happened. Ye Zexi becomes increasingly embarrassed and considers skipping the ceremony, though he ultimately remains because he is expected to receive an award.
• The chapter ends with Ye Zexi realizing that the red-carpet livestream has likely spread news of their public kiss across the internet.

Character development

• Ye Zexi: Though outwardly aloof and annoyed, he is clearly shy and deeply affected by He Jinyun’s teasing. His impulsive kiss reveals both his affection and his willingness to take control of the situation when embarrassed.
• He Jinyun: Becomes more openly affectionate and playful in public. He deliberately displays their relationship, enjoys provoking Ye Zexi, and responds warmly to the kiss, showing confidence and genuine happiness.
• Their relationship has progressed from private intimacy to a more openly acknowledged public romance.

Themes

• Public versus private love: Their relationship is no longer hidden, and their private affection becomes a spectacle for fans and media.
• Teasing and mutual affection: Their bickering masks tenderness and comfort with one another.
• Celebrity culture and fan participation: Fans, livestream comments, photographers, and even the host actively shape and amplify the couple’s public image.
• Embarrassment versus sincerity: Although Ye Zexi resists the attention, his actions reveal sincere affection beneath his irritation.

Character interactions

• He Jinyun repeatedly teases Ye Zexi by holding his hand, displaying their joined hands, and suggesting they kiss.
• Ye Zexi responds with annoyance and embarrassment but ultimately initiates the kiss himself.
• Afterward, He Jinyun reassures and continues teasing him, intertwining their fingers and refusing to let him pull away.
• Their playful exchange demonstrates a comfortable, affectionate dynamic in which He Jinyun is openly mischievous and Ye Zexi reacts with reluctant but genuine tenderness.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• News and clear photos of Ye Zexi and He Jinyun kissing on the red carpet spread rapidly across the internet. Their fans reacted enthusiastically, celebrating the couple’s public display of affection and noticing their matching watches and coordinated suits.
• During the awards ceremony, audience members livestreamed footage showing Ye Zexi and He Jinyun sitting closely together. The two repeatedly whispered to and smiled at each other, delighting their fans.
• When He Jinyun was shown among the Best Actor nominees, the camera captured him and Ye Zexi together. Ye Zexi tried unsuccessfully to avoid appearing on-screen, then resigned himself to their increasingly public relationship.
• Ye Zexi playfully pinched He Jinyun’s finger under the table. He Jinyun delayed going onstage after winning Best Actor until Ye Zexi reminded him to accept the award, creating another amusingly intimate moment.
• Ye Zexi won both Best Newcomer and Best Supporting Actor. The venue and fans celebrated his success, particularly praising his performance as Azi.
• Before Ye Zexi accepted his awards, He Jinyun held his hand and joked regretfully that they would no longer be able to hold hands because Ye Zexi would need to carry two trophies.
• Ye Zexi improvised his acceptance speech, but the host continued questioning him about what He Jinyun had whispered to him after his wins. The chapter ends with Ye Zexi instinctively looking toward He Jinyun.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi becomes increasingly comfortable with public attention surrounding his relationship with He Jinyun. Although initially embarrassed and concerned about being filmed together, he eventually accepts that their kiss and closeness are already public knowledge.
• Ye Zexi’s professional reputation is strengthened by his victories in both the Best Newcomer and Best Supporting Actor categories. His performance as Azi receives widespread recognition.
• He Jinyun openly displays affection and playful intimacy toward Ye Zexi, even during a major awards ceremony. He is proud and supportive of Ye Zexi, holding his hand and managing his trophy while Ye Zexi gives his speech.
• Their relationship shifts further from private affection toward an openly acknowledged romance, with both their behavior and the public’s reactions reinforcing this change.

Significant Themes

• Public romance and fan culture: The couple’s kiss becomes a shared source of excitement for fans, showing how celebrity relationships can be shaped and celebrated by online communities.
• Love intertwined with career success: The chapter connects Ye Zexi and He Jinyun’s romantic relationship with their professional achievements, as both receive major recognition on the same night.
• Playful intimacy: Small gestures—holding hands, whispering, teasing, and pinching—demonstrate the couple’s ease and affection even under intense public scrutiny.
• Recognition and growth: Ye Zexi’s double win marks an important milestone in his acting career and confirms his development as a respected performer.

Character Interactions

• Ye Zexi and He Jinyun sit together, whisper to one another, smile privately, and hold hands throughout the ceremony.
• Ye Zexi teases He Jinyun by pinching his finger when the camera focuses on them.
• He Jinyun jokingly complains that winning two awards means they will have to stop holding hands.
• Ye Zexi prompts He Jinyun to accept his Best Actor award, while He Jinyun later holds Ye Zexi’s trophy for him.
• The host directly probes their relationship by asking what He Jinyun said to Ye Zexi, placing their private interaction at the center of the public ceremony.

Chapter 128 Summary

Key plot points and events

Ye Zexi wins two trophies at the Golden Bird Awards and is prompted by the host to reveal what He Jinyun whispered to him. After briefly hesitating, Ye Zexi explains that He Jinyun complained the trophies would occupy both of Ye Zexi’s hands, preventing them from holding hands. The unexpected romantic confession leaves the host, audience, and livestream viewers stunned before they erupt into laughter and excitement.
After Ye Zexi returns to his seat, He Jinyun immediately takes his hand and jokes that the trophies can be placed on the floor because Ye Zexi should not be neglected. Their trophies are indeed set down until Gao Shu comes to store them properly. During the post-ceremony interview, He Jinyun deliberately raises their clasped hands to prove they can still hold hands, then quickly ends the interview and escorts Ye Zexi backstage, leaving the reporters wanting more. Fans subsequently dub the ceremony a public display of affection event for the HeXi couple.

Character developments

Ye Zexi, though embarrassed and visibly blushing, becomes more willing to openly acknowledge his relationship with He Jinyun. He even turns the host’s question into a playful, self-assured display of affection and success. He Jinyun remains confident, affectionate, and shamelessly flirtatious, openly prioritizing Ye Zexi over the ceremony, media, and even their trophies. His unusual willingness to participate in an interview further shows how much he enjoys publicly supporting and teasing Ye Zexi.

Significant themes

The chapter emphasizes open affection, playful intimacy, and public acknowledgment of love. It also highlights the contrast between Ye Zexi’s easily flustered nature and He Jinyun’s bold confidence. Their relationship has progressed to the point where their affection is no longer hidden, becoming a source of joy for both themselves and their fans. The chapter also humorously explores celebrity culture, media attention, and fan enthusiasm surrounding a popular couple.

Character interactions

Ye Zexi and He Jinyun repeatedly tease and reassure each other through hand-holding, flirtatious remarks, and public gestures. He Jinyun responds to Ye Zexi’s award-speech comment by physically taking his hand and later raising it for the reporters, while Ye Zexi reacts with embarrassment and playful irritation. The host struggles to recover after unintentionally prompting such an intimate answer, Gao Shu quietly manages their abandoned trophies, and the reporters and fans enthusiastically interpret every interaction as another affectionate “HeXi” moment.

Chapter Summary

• After the Golden Bird Awards, the public’s attention focuses less on He Jinyun and Ye Zexi’s individual victories and more on the overwhelmingly popular “HeXi CP.” Even non-shippers are delighted by the couple’s apparent sweetness. Gao Shu, however, regrets that Ye Zexi’s Best Newcomer and Best Supporting Actor wins did not trend higher, since greater publicity could have increased his future earnings.
• Following the ceremony, Ye Zexi stays mostly at home. He Jinyun has finished his work and spends the quiet period with him. They work separately in the study or relax together, enjoying a comfortable domestic routine in which they can see each other without disturbing one another. Their relationship appears increasingly natural, intimate, and peaceful.
• In March, Ye Zexi must leave home to film his Bvlgari endorsement. He Jinyun intends to pick him up afterward and cook dried fish for him, which immediately improves Ye Zexi’s mood despite his disappointment that He cannot accompany him to the shoot.
• The filming ends early, but Ye Zexi receives a call from an unfamiliar number. After answering, his expression changes, and he instructs Gao Shu to take him to Deercall Corner instead of home or He Jinyun’s company. He tells Gao Shu he is meeting someone else and asks him to wait outside.
• Ye Zexi messages He Jinyun, falsely claiming that “Auntie” suddenly asked him to return home and that He should not wait for him for dinner. He Jinyun soon realizes the explanation cannot be true because Yan Man—the aunt Ye appears to be referring to—is sitting with him and never contacted Ye.
• Suspicious and concerned, He Jinyun wonders why Ye Zexi would lie and what important matter he could be hiding. He abruptly leaves his business discussion with Yan Man, who casually encourages him to prioritize Ye Zexi.
• After arriving at the private room with Ye Zexi, Gao Shu receives He Jinyun’s request for their location. Though he hesitates because Ye had told him not to reveal anything, Gao Shu ultimately sends He the address, setting up a likely confrontation or revelation.

Character Development and Interactions

• Ye Zexi: Shows increased comfort in his relationship with He Jinyun and behaves affectionately and playfully at home, but becomes secretive after receiving the mysterious call. His lie suggests that he is either protecting He or dealing with a sensitive personal matter.
• He Jinyun: Demonstrates strong emotional attentiveness and concern. He quickly detects inconsistencies in Ye’s message, refuses to ignore them, and immediately goes to find him.
• Gao Shu: Remains observant and loyal to Ye, but his concern for the situation and He Jinyun’s request eventually outweigh his promise to keep the meeting secret.
• Yan Man: Understands He Jinyun’s priorities and lightly supports his decision to leave, reinforcing the importance of Ye in his life.

Significant Themes

• The chapter emphasizes the couple’s growing domestic intimacy and mutual comfort.
• Public fascination with the HeXi pairing contrasts with the couple’s private, genuine relationship.
• Trust and secrecy become central as Ye begins hiding information and He tries to uncover the reason.
• The closing events create suspense, suggesting that Ye’s secret meeting may lead to conflict or an important revelation.

Chapter 129 Summary

Ye Zexi meets privately with He Xiu, He Jinyun’s estranged father, after receiving an unexpected invitation. He chooses not to tell He Jinyun, believing he can handle the conversation himself and sensing that He Xiu does not want his son involved.
When Ye Zexi arrives, he is struck by how much He Xiu resembles He Jinyun. However, He Xiu’s features and manner are colder and more severe, contrasting with He Jinyun’s gentler personality. The two share a meal, initially avoiding serious conversation. Ye Zexi orders several dishes he likes, including fried fish, while He Xiu drinks tea and observes him.
He Xiu comments that Ye Zexi likes fish, unlike He Jinyun, who supposedly hates it. Ye Zexi doubts this, recalling that He Jinyun willingly eats—and even competes with him for—fish when they are together. When He Xiu implies that Ye Zexi should know He Jinyun’s preferences better after being together for so long, Ye Zexi calmly defends himself, saying that while he may not know everything about He Jinyun, he knows how He Jinyun behaves with him.
After the meal, He Xiu reveals his real purpose: he believes Ye Zexi and He Jinyun should separate. He argues that society does not accept their relationship and suggests that they are merely indulging in youthful excitement that will eventually fade. His dismissive attitude, especially his assumption that their relationship is only temporary or playful, frustrates Ye Zexi. Unable to listen any longer, Ye Zexi directly asks whether He Xiu thinks they are simply fooling around.
The chapter emphasizes the contrast between He Xiu’s judgmental, distant attitude and Ye Zexi’s growing certainty about his relationship with He Jinyun. It also highlights Ye Zexi’s willingness to confront He Jinyun’s father rather than passively accept his assumptions.

Chapter 130 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Xiu confronts Ye Zexi and pressures him to break up with He Jinyun. He argues that both men will eventually inherit their family businesses and implies that marriage arrangements are inevitable.
• Ye Zexi becomes furious at He Xiu’s interference and sarcastically references He Xiu’s own failed marriage to Aunt Zhuang, suggesting that He Xiu’s arrogance contributed to the divorce.
• He Xiu insists that, as an elder, he deserves respect and bluntly orders Ye Zexi to “know what’s good for him” and end the relationship.
• Ye Zexi firmly refuses. He explains that his own father supports his freedom to choose whom he marries, unlike He Xiu, and declares that he has never regarded He Xiu as an elder worthy of respect.
• As Ye Zexi tries to leave, He Jinyun unexpectedly enters the private room. He is visibly furious and coldly challenges his father, asking what they could possibly have to discuss with him.
• He Jinyun takes Ye Zexi’s hand and leads him away, warning that he will settle accounts with him later.
• Outside, Ye Zexi realizes that Gao Shu must have informed He Jinyun about the meeting. Gao Shu avoids him, quickly arranges for Ye Zexi to go home with He Jinyun, and flees.
• During the drive, He Jinyun raises the divider between the front and back seats, creating a tense, private atmosphere. He remains silent and visibly angry while Ye Zexi anxiously reflects on having kept the meeting secret.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi becomes openly defiant. He abandons his earlier attempt to show He Xiu respect for He Jinyun’s sake and asserts his independence and right to choose his own relationship.
• He Xiu is revealed as controlling, arrogant, and dismissive of other people’s autonomy. His composure cracks when Ye Zexi brings up his divorce and challenges his authority.
• He Jinyun shows strong protectiveness toward Ye Zexi. His unexpected arrival and anger indicate that he takes his father’s interference seriously, though he is also upset that Ye Zexi concealed the meeting.
• Gao Shu is shown to be loyal to He Jinyun’s interests, secretly informing him about the confrontation, but he is too intimidated to face Ye Zexi afterward.
• Ye Zexi displays unusual self-awareness, recognizing that he would have felt equally betrayed if He Jinyun had secretly met Ye Zexi’s father under similar circumstances.

Significant Themes

• Freedom of romantic choice: Ye Zexi rejects the idea that family status, business succession, or parental expectations should determine whom he marries.
• Mutual respect and generational authority: The chapter questions whether age or family position automatically earns respect, emphasizing that respect must be reciprocal.
• Parental control versus individual autonomy: He Xiu attempts to dictate He Jinyun’s relationship, while Ye Zexi contrasts him with his own supportive and democratic father.
• Trust and honesty in relationships: Although Ye Zexi successfully defends his relationship, his decision to hide the meeting from He Jinyun creates a new source of tension between them.
• Family patterns: Ye Zexi’s reference to He Xiu’s divorce suggests that He Xiu’s controlling behavior may have damaged his previous marriage as well.

Character Interactions

• The central confrontation is between Ye Zexi and He Xiu, with Ye Zexi turning from restrained politeness to sharp, uncompromising resistance.
• He Jinyun’s arrival changes the balance of power and signals his rejection of his father’s attempt to separate him from Ye Zexi.
• He Jinyun and Ye Zexi leave together, but He Jinyun’s anger and Ye Zexi’s anxiety create unresolved tension during the ride home.

Chapter Summary — Page 255

Plot Points and Events

• Ye Zexi realizes He Jinyun is upset because He sighs repeatedly but refuses to look at or speak to him.
• Unsure how to comfort his boyfriend, Ye Zexi secretly asks his followers on Weibo for advice. His fans tease him, assume he made He angry, and celebrate the couple’s apparent argument, so Ye quickly deletes the post.
• He then searches online for advice about calming an angry boyfriend, but the results are unhelpful and mostly written from a heterosexual perspective.
• When the van arrives at the villa, He Jinyun unexpectedly goes to his own house rather than returning to Ye Zexi’s home, where they have been living together. This shocks Ye because most of He’s belongings—including his pajamas—are at Ye’s villa.
• With encouragement from Yu Ye, who reveals that He has not eaten all day, Ye follows him. He enters using the fingerprint He previously registered for him.
• Ye turns on the heat and searches He’s unused kitchen for food. Finding only a box of Lanzhou noodles, he worries that simply making noodles will seem too perfunctory.
• Determined to make a proper meal despite his limited cooking skills, Ye returns to his villa to collect ingredients. He grabs as many vegetables as possible, believing that having more ingredients will compensate if he ruins some of them.
• As Ye returns through the freezing night, carrying the vegetables, He’s door suddenly opens from inside before Ye can scan his fingerprint, creating a cliffhanger.

Character Development

• Ye Zexi: Displays genuine concern and vulnerability over He Jinyun’s anger. Although inexperienced in romance and cooking, he actively seeks solutions, tries asking fans and searching online, and ultimately makes an earnest effort to prepare food for He.
• He Jinyun: Remains distant and silent, expressing his displeasure through avoidance rather than confrontation. His decision to retreat to his own house suggests he is genuinely upset but still allows Ye access, indicating that his anger has limits.
• Yu Ye: Acts as an observant and helpful intermediary. He recognizes the situation, encourages Ye to follow He, handles their belongings, and subtly informs Ye that He has not eaten.

Significant Themes

• Communication in relationships: Ye struggles because he and He have not directly addressed the source of He’s anger.
• Romantic inexperience and sincerity: Ye’s awkward attempts to seek advice and cook demonstrate that genuine affection can appear through imperfect but wholehearted efforts.
• Domestic intimacy: The couple’s shared belongings and living arrangements emphasize how intertwined their lives have become.
• Humor amid emotional tension: Ye’s fans’ teasing, his failed internet searches, and his exaggerated confidence about cooking provide comic relief while highlighting his anxiety.

Character Interactions

• Ye interacts indirectly with his fans through a deleted Weibo post, receiving teasing rather than useful advice.
• Yu Ye quietly supports Ye and nudges him toward taking care of He.
• Ye and He have little direct conversation, but their actions reveal their emotional conflict: He withdraws, while Ye persistently tries to win him back through practical gestures.

Chapter 131 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• He Jinyun is visibly worried when Ye Zexi finally returns. Ye sneezes from the cold, prompting He to pull him inside and prepare ginger tea.
• Ye Zexi assumes He Jinyun may no longer be angry and embraces him from behind, repeatedly trying to coax him into speaking.
• He Jinyun remains silent and emotionally distant until Ye starts to leave to retrieve the groceries. He then asks where Ye is going.
• Ye notices He Jinyun’s unusually red, vulnerable eyes and realizes that He’s anger is rooted in deeper fear and concern. This shocks Ye, who has always viewed He as calm, dependable, and nearly invulnerable.
• Ye reassures him that he is not leaving and promises to return immediately with the groceries. He keeps comforting He through hugs and small gestures while cooking.
• Since Ye does not know how to cook, He Jinyun takes over preparing dinner but insists that Ye remain nearby. Ye promises not to leave.
• He’s mood gradually improves, though he eats very little. Ye repeatedly serves him food until the meal is finished.
• After dinner, He gives Ye a bowl of the ginger tea he prepared, continuing to show his concern despite his lingering emotions.

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Begins to understand that he has not known He Jinyun as deeply as he believed. He becomes more attentive and cautious, recognizing He’s vulnerability and trying to reassure him through physical affection, promises, and care.
• He Jinyun: Reveals an unusually fragile and emotionally distressed side. Though still quiet and reserved, his actions—making ginger tea, watching Ye constantly, cooking for him, and ensuring he drinks the tea—show how deeply worried and attached he is.

Significant Themes

• Misunderstood emotions: Ye initially interprets He’s silence as anger, but gradually realizes it comes from worry and emotional pain.
• Vulnerability beneath strength: He Jinyun’s red eyes challenge Ye’s image of him as invulnerable and highlight that even dependable people need reassurance.
• Care expressed through actions: Rather than speaking openly, He communicates concern by preparing ginger tea, cooking, watching Ye, and making sure he stays close.
• Reassurance and emotional intimacy: Ye’s repeated promises not to leave and his constant physical affection help restore a sense of security between them.

Character Interactions

• Ye repeatedly hugs, touches, and reassures He, while He responds mostly through silence and practical acts of care.
• He’s question—“Where are you going?”—reveals his fear of Ye leaving and becomes the emotional turning point of the chapter.
• Their shared meal reflects their relationship dynamic: Ye actively cares for He by serving him food, while He quietly cares for Ye by cooking and preparing ginger tea.

Chapter Summary

• After dinner, Ye Zexi reluctantly finishes the ginger tea He Jinyun prepared for him and cleans up the dishes without being asked. He suggests they return to their neighboring villa, where their daily necessities are already located, and He Jinyun agrees.
• Before leaving, He Jinyun notices Ye Zexi is still undressed and insists that he put on his clothes, revealing his continued attentiveness despite his earlier anger. Ye Zexi realizes how deeply He Jinyun worries about him, especially after rushing to intervene when Ye Zexi met He Xiu alone.
• Ye Zexi apologizes for meeting He Xiu without informing He Jinyun. He understands that He Jinyun feared Ye Zexi might accept his father’s conditions and end their relationship. Ye Zexi promises sincerely that he will remain by He Jinyun’s side and that none of his fears will come true.
• Reassured but still emotionally overwhelmed, He Jinyun responds passionately. Their intimacy becomes intense, reflecting his need to reaffirm their bond and claim a sense of security in their relationship. They do not return to the neighboring villa and spend the night together.
• At three in the morning, He Jinyun apologizes for having ignored Ye Zexi earlier. Ye Zexi forgives him, joking that future conflicts will depend on who is at fault—and promising that if he is responsible, he will still be the one to coax He Jinyun.
• Their playful exchange eases He Jinyun’s anxiety, while Ye Zexi asks directly about the conflict between He Jinyun and his father. This time, He Jinyun chooses honesty and begins revealing the long-held secrets behind their relationship.
• He Jinyun explains that he was raised as the He family’s only eldest son and was expected to inherit the family business. However, he never wanted that future and instead developed a strong passion for the performing arts.

Character Development and Themes

• Ye Zexi becomes more emotionally perceptive and responsible, recognizing He Jinyun’s insecurity and acknowledging that he should have communicated openly.
• He Jinyun begins lowering his defenses and preparing to share painful family history, showing increased trust in Ye Zexi.
• The chapter emphasizes communication, reassurance, emotional vulnerability, and mutual dependence. Their physical intimacy mirrors their emotional reconciliation, while He Jinyun’s confession signals a deeper stage of honesty in their relationship.
• Their interactions shift from conflict and anxiety to tenderness, playful forgiveness, and a willingness to confront past wounds together.

Chapter 132 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• The chapter reveals He Xiu’s oppressive control over He Jinyun’s childhood. He Xiu destroyed or removed anything Jinyun cared about—including toys, friendships, and later romantic preferences—whenever they threatened his carefully chosen path for his heir.
• Jinyun gradually learned to hide his interests and emotions after repeated attempts to resist were suppressed.
• When Jinyun came out to his family at eighteen, He Xiu reacted harshly and even considered sending him to a psychiatric hospital. Zhuang Lan defended her son, proposed divorce, and successfully diverted He Xiu’s attention while Jinyun debuted.
• Zhuang Lan eventually divorced He Xiu and offered to take Jinyun abroad, but Jinyun chose to remain after beginning his career. He later cut off contact with He Xiu completely.
• Years later, He Xiu unexpectedly returned and sought out Ye Zexi, the person Jinyun valued most. This triggered Jinyun’s deep fear that He Xiu would once again take away someone important to him.
• Ye Zexi firmly reassured Jinyun that he would not leave him. After explaining his past, Jinyun and Ye Zexi reconciled through physical affection and emotional reassurance.
• Following the incident, Ye Zexi began reporting his whereabouts constantly to make Jinyun feel secure. His frequent messages, voice recordings, and memes amused Yu Ye, while Jinyun found the attention deeply comforting.

Character Developments

• He Jinyun: His calm exterior is shown to conceal longstanding trauma, fear of abandonment, and a habit of suppressing his feelings. Although he has escaped He Xiu’s control, his childhood experiences still influence his relationships. His trust in Ye Zexi grows as Ye proves he will remain by his side.
• Ye Zexi: He becomes more emotionally attentive and protective after realizing how deeply He Xiu’s interference affected Jinyun. He regrets meeting He Xiu without warning him and actively reassures Jinyun through both words and consistent communication.
• He Xiu: He is characterized as domineering, controlling, and unwilling to accept any deviation from his plans for Jinyun, including Jinyun’s sexuality and personal relationships.
• Zhuang Lan: She emerges as Jinyun’s strongest protector within the family. By opposing He Xiu and divorcing him, she creates the opportunity for Jinyun to gain independence.
• Yu Ye: His humorous reaction provides a lighter contrast to the chapter’s heavier emotional material as he observes Ye Zexi’s overwhelming stream of messages.

Significant Themes

• Control versus personal freedom: He Jinyun’s life is shaped by his struggle to escape his father’s attempts to control his interests, relationships, and identity.
• Trauma and fear of abandonment: Even after leaving home, Jinyun remains haunted by the loss of people and things he loved.
• Healing through trust: Ye Zexi’s unwavering reassurance helps Jinyun feel that his relationship is fundamentally different from the friendships He Xiu destroyed.
• Family and chosen relationships: Zhuang Lan protects Jinyun as a mother, while Ye Zexi becomes the dependable emotional support and family-like presence Jinyun feared losing.
• Communication as reassurance: Ye Zexi’s constant updates show how small, deliberate actions can help rebuild security after emotional trauma.

Character Interactions

• He Xiu repeatedly suppresses Jinyun’s choices and relationships, while Zhuang Lan challenges him and ultimately protects their son.
• Jinyun and Zexi have an emotionally vulnerable conversation in which Jinyun explains his fear and Zexi promises not to leave. Their reconciliation ends in a mutual kiss.
• Afterward, Zexi deliberately keeps Jinyun informed of his movements, turning communication into a way of expressing love and reliability.
• Yu Ye notices the flood of messages and contrasts his own impatience with voice messages against Jinyun’s evident enjoyment of Zexi’s constant attention.

Chapter 133 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After After the Rain wraps, Ye Zexi has no upcoming projects and repeatedly refuses the offers his manager, Gao Shu, brings him.
• Unable to persuade Ye Zexi, Gao Shu appeals to He Jinyun. Although He initially dislikes the idea of separating from Ye, he agrees that Ye needs to maintain his public visibility and promote his upcoming film.
• He selects an offer for Ye to serve as a regular mentor on Era Idol 2, which will require a month of filming in June.
• Ye initially resists because he does not want to spend so much time away from He Jinyun, but changes his mind when He promises to accompany him.
• Ye also insists that He continue cooking for him rather than making him eat ordinary production meals. He arranges for Ye to receive a presidential suite, and Ye finally signs the contract.
• When filming begins in June, Ye is given the entire third floor of the villa because the show is being filmed at his family’s property. The trainees, however, are placed in shared rooms despite the villa’s ample space.
• Ye and He discover that Shan Zeyu has returned as another mentor. Both Ye and Shan react with annoyance at seeing each other again, while He jokingly calls Shan a “third wheel.”

Character Developments

• Ye Zexi: Remains openly dependent on and affectionate toward He Jinyun, prioritizing time together over career opportunities. Nevertheless, he recognizes the need to maintain his exposure and agrees to return to television under comfortable conditions.
• He Jinyun: Shows both his possessiveness and practical concern for Ye’s career. He initially wants Ye to stay home with him but ultimately encourages him to work, promising to accompany and care for him.
• Gao Shu: Becomes increasingly desperate to secure Ye a project, visiting repeatedly and seeking help from both Ye Jianbin and He Jinyun. He is overjoyed when Ye finally signs.
• Shan Zeyu: Returns as a mentor and continues his familiar, antagonistic dynamic with Ye and He.

Significant Themes

• Love versus career: Ye’s reluctance to work reflects how deeply he values his relationship with He, while He recognizes that Ye cannot completely withdraw from the public eye.
• Domestic intimacy and indulgence: Food, living arrangements, and shared routines emphasize the couple’s comfortable, affectionate relationship.
• Public image and professional responsibility: Despite his wealth and ability to live without working, Ye still needs regular exposure to sustain his career and support his upcoming film.
• Humorous romantic jealousy: He’s “third wheel” comment highlights the playful possessiveness and comedic tension among the three mentors.

Character Interactions

• Gao Shu unsuccessfully pressures Ye to accept work before turning to He for assistance.
• He persuades Ye by offering to accompany him, cook for him, and arrange luxurious accommodations.
• Ye and He negotiate the contract through affectionate teasing, with Ye ultimately agreeing because He will be nearby.
• At the villa, Ye and He reunite with Shan Zeyu, whose presence immediately revives their humorous friction.

Chapter Summary

• Plot and events: Shan Zeyu initially resents Ye Zexi and He Jinyun’s closeness, but his mood improves when he learns the production team has added mandatory interactive activities to Era Idol 2. The new segment reduces Ye Zexi’s private time with He Jinyun, much to Shan Zeyu’s amusement. However, Shan’s satisfaction ends when He Jinyun joins one of the activities. The trainees immediately notice the pair’s relationship, though Ye Zexi and He Jinyun remain discreet, secretly holding hands. The production team capitalizes on He Jinyun’s popularity by adding a family seat beside Ye Zexi’s, allowing them to sit near each other during filming.
• The first public performance stage is livestreamed, revealing to Ye Zexi’s fans that he has become a mentor on the show. Ye Zexi performs “Enjoy to the Fullest” from The Famous General with Shan Zeyu, generating enthusiastic reactions and nostalgia among fans. Since the mentors have limited stage time, viewers spend the rest of the livestream watching the trainees, but afterward fans begin trending demands for Ye Zexi to release a song or album.
• Character development: Ye Zexi remains openly devoted to He Jinyun but becomes embarrassed and restrained around the trainees, showing affection only through small gestures such as secretly holding hands. He also continues avoiding pressure to pursue a more active singing career, despite his fans’ enthusiasm. He Jinyun is affectionate and teasing, joking that Shan Zeyu should find a partner. Shan becomes increasingly exasperated by the couple and reacts with comic jealousy and resentment. Director Li Changjian begins reconsidering Ye Zexi’s career potential, recognizing that his acting success does not necessarily mean singing and dancing are the best paths for him.
• Themes: The chapter emphasizes romance versus career, public curiosity about celebrities’ private lives, and the tension between personal happiness and professional expectations. It also highlights fan devotion, media exploitation of celebrity relationships, and the difficulty of maintaining privacy in the entertainment industry.
• Character interactions: Shan and He Jinyun exchange teasing remarks about Shan’s single status, leaving Shan embarrassed and angry. Ye Zexi and He Jinyun maintain a discreet but affectionate relationship in front of the trainees. Ye Zexi’s performance with Shan creates a successful mentor partnership, while fans’ comments repeatedly express their wish to see Ye Zexi perform with He Jinyun instead.