Ch. 21Chapter 21
Chapter 21 Summary
Plot Points and Events
- An Xiang, neglected by her parents and often left without food, taught herself to cook. She now prepares meals daily for An Zimo and the children.
- Pei Chen helps her in the kitchen, ostensibly with the vegetables but secretly hoping to grow closer to her. He asks whether she is divorced and learns that she has never been married; she simply chose to have a child on her own.
- Pei Chen is delighted by this revelation, though he worries that Pei Yizhou may object if he pursues a relationship with a human woman.
- During the meal, Pei Nuo wants to sit beside An Zimo, but he refuses. An Xiang comforts her by letting her sit beside her and feeding her.
- Pei Nuo asks whether An Xiang has a boyfriend, then tries to set her up with Pei Yizhou by giving her his private contact information. An Xiang sends a friend request, which Pei Yizhou immediately rejects. To avoid upsetting Pei Nuo, An Xiang lies and says he accepted it.
- An Zimo becomes visibly gloomy after watching An Xiang give Pei Nuo so much attention. An Xiang realizes he is jealous, though she finds his reaction amusing rather than confronting him.
- Pei Yizhou messages Pei Chen, reprimanding the family for giving out his number. Pei Chen indirectly asks whether he would oppose him marrying a human woman who is older and already has a child. Pei Yizhou unexpectedly replies that Pei Chen may do whatever he likes, though the chapter’s ending joke suggests he may regret giving such broad permission.
Character Developments
- An Xiang: Demonstrates independence and domestic competence, while also showing warmth and patience toward the children. Her gentle care for Pei Nuo contrasts with her inability to fully connect with An Zimo, who is unusually self-sufficient.
- Pei Chen: Develops romantic interest in An Xiang. He is bashful and inexperienced around her but makes clear efforts to help and learn about her personal life.
- Pei Nuo: Reveals herself to be affectionate, spoiled, and eager to bring An Xiang into the family. Her matchmaking attempt shows how quickly she has grown attached to An Xiang.
- An Zimo: Displays jealousy when An Xiang focuses on Pei Nuo, despite maintaining his usual quiet and emotionally restrained behavior.
- Pei Yizhou: Appears stern and difficult to approach, but his response shows that he is fundamentally open-minded about his family’s romantic choices. His thoughts also hint at a growing awareness of An Xiang.
Significant Themes
- Found family and domestic warmth: An Xiang’s home-cooked meal creates a comforting family atmosphere that the children clearly enjoy.
- Neglect versus care: An Xiang’s childhood deprivation contrasts with the nurturing environment she tries to create for the children.
- Jealousy and emotional attachment: An Zimo’s jealousy and Pei Nuo’s matchmaking both reveal the children’s desire for An Xiang’s attention and continued presence.
- Human–Vampire relations: Pei Yizhou’s acceptance of human partners reflects the Pei family’s rejection of the Vampire Clan’s extreme obsession with blood purity.
- Romantic misunderstandings: Pei Chen’s attraction, Pei Nuo’s matchmaking, and An Xiang’s awkwardness create lighthearted tension around potential relationships.
Character Interactions
- Pei Chen and An Xiang grow closer while cooking together, with Pei Chen subtly observing and admiring her.
- An Xiang comforts Pei Nuo by feeding her and allowing her to sit beside her, strengthening their bond.
- Pei Nuo attempts to connect An Xiang with Pei Yizhou, while Pei Chen becomes suspicious and embarrassed.
- An Zimo silently reacts to An Xiang’s affection toward Pei Nuo, revealing his possessive or jealous feelings.
- Pei Chen and Pei Yizhou exchange messages about relationships, with Pei Yizhou unknowingly granting permission for the very situation he may later have to face.