Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Gu Yanqing and Xu Han argue, Koukou becomes frightened and cries intensely. Xu Han comforts him while Gu Yanqing researches ways to calm a startled baby.
• Gu Yanqing goes with Grandma Qiao to the village clinic to buy medicine, while Xu Han massages Koukou and increases physical contact. The baby eventually calms down, drinks milk, and falls asleep.
• Gu Yanqing apologizes to Xu Han for his earlier harshness. Exhausted, the household goes to bed, though Xu Han remains watchful over Koukou.
• In the middle of the night, Xu Han hears a disturbance outside. She and Gu Yanqing investigate the vegetable garden, where they discover Qiao Xinde and Luo Yangxiu fleeing.
• The couple is exposed as having entered the garden to spray Paraquat pesticide. Their intention was apparently to destroy Xu Han’s crops and potentially endanger the entire family.
• Their plan is interrupted by Yellow Immortal, the family’s weasel, whose frightening appearance and aggression drive them out. Xu Han calls the animal back and confronts the intruders.
• Xu Han angrily points out that Paraquat could kill anyone who ate the contaminated vegetables, while Luo Yangxiu dismisses the danger because the plants have only recently sprouted.

Character Developments

• Xu Han remains sharp-tongued and independent, but her exhaustion and concern for Koukou reveal her caring and protective side. She also feels unexpectedly reassured by Gu Yanqing’s presence during the nighttime disturbance.
• Gu Yanqing demonstrates practical concern by researching how to comfort Koukou, obtaining medicine, protecting Xu Han during the investigation, and apologizing for his earlier behavior. His actions suggest growing responsibility and consideration.
• Koukou is easily frightened but responds well to Xu Han’s soothing care and physical affection.
• Yellow Immortal proves fiercely protective of Xu Han’s household. Though intimidating toward the intruders, he immediately obeys Xu Han’s command.
• Qiao Xinde and Luo Yangxiu are revealed to be malicious and resentful relatives willing to trespass and use a deadly pesticide to sabotage Xu Han’s vegetable garden.

Significant Themes

• Family protection and responsibility: Xu Han and Gu Yanqing work together to care for Koukou and defend the household.
• Growing trust and intimacy: Gu Yanqing’s apology and Xu Han’s sense of security around him indicate a gradual softening in their relationship.
• Superstition and rural beliefs: The chapter references traditional methods for calming frightened children and the village’s superstitious attitude toward supernatural phenomena.
• Malice and property conflict: The relatives’ attempt to poison the garden reflects their jealousy and refusal to accept losing control of the family’s land.
• Justice versus intimidation: Xu Han uses the threat of involving the police to confront the intruders, while Yellow Immortal provides a more immediate deterrent.

Character Interactions

• Xu Han and Gu Yanqing argue, then cooperate to calm Koukou and later investigate the disturbance together.
• Gu Yanqing’s apology marks a rare moment of humility between them.
• Xu Han confronts Qiao Xinde and Luo Yangxiu with sarcasm and legal threats after discovering their sabotage.
• Yellow Immortal acts aggressively toward the intruders but obediently returns to Xu Han when called, emphasizing his bond with her.

Chapter 22 Summary

Key plot points and events

• Qiao Xinde and Luo Yangxiu are caught attempting to damage Xu Han’s vegetable field. Frightened by the possibility of police involvement, they apologize and beg her for forgiveness, insisting it was an impulsive mistake.
• Gu Yanqing advises Xu Han to let them go, promising to ensure they will not trouble her again. Xu Han agrees but demands compensation for any vegetables they destroyed. They deny having damaged anything and leave after repeatedly thanking her.
• Yellow Immortal, Xu Han’s weasel, is revealed to have protected the field and driven the intruders away. Xu Han praises and pets him, while Gu Yanqing jokingly says that he has earned merit. Gu Yanqing suggests bringing a fiercer dog to protect Xu Han, Grandma Qiao, and Koukou, but Xu Han insists that Yellow Immortal is sufficient.
• The next morning, Grandma Qiao observes Xu Han and Gu Yanqing picking vegetables together and assumes they may be reconciling. The household shares a warm, peaceful breakfast of porridge and pickled vegetables. Koukou is healthy and cheerful, and Gu Yanqing watches tenderly as Xu Han cares for him.
• The peaceful mood changes when Gu Yanqing receives news that his cousin’s son, Gu Mingyuan—the male lead from the original story—is ill. He must return to care for him.
• Xu Han reacts with sudden fear and emotional distance. She tells Gu Yanqing not to visit again, explaining that she wants to avoid becoming involved with him and the people connected to him. Gu Yanqing leaves without taking the basket of vegetables she had prepared for him.
• Xu Han reflects that, despite moving away to protect Koukou and escape the original story’s conflicts, fate still seems to be drawing her back toward them. She resolves to keep Gu Yanqing at a distance.
• After two peaceful days, Alai arrives at Xu Han’s gate carrying an entire pig’s head. He explains that he has come to fulfill his vow to Yellow Immortal, ending the chapter on a humorous and unexpected note.

Character developments

• Xu Han remains protective and cautious. She is willing to show mercy but no longer trusts Qiao Xinde and Luo Yangxiu, recognizing that their previous promises did not prevent them from causing trouble again. Her fear of Gu Mingyuan shows how strongly she wants to protect Koukou from the original story’s dangerous relationships and consequences.
• Gu Yanqing demonstrates practical concern for Xu Han’s safety and confidence in handling the Qiao family. His gentle attention toward Xu Han and Koukou suggests growing affection, though he respects her sudden request to leave because of his urgent family obligation.
• Yellow Immortal becomes established as a capable and loyal protector of the household. His proud reaction to Xu Han’s praise adds a comic, almost human quality to him.
• Grandma Qiao misunderstands the history between Xu Han and Gu Yanqing and happily assumes they are an estranged couple getting back together.
• Alai reappears as a superstitious but sincere villager, honoring his promise to reward Yellow Immortal.

Significant themes

• Protection and family: Xu Han’s decisions are driven by her desire to keep Koukou and Grandma Qiao safe.
• Fate versus personal choice: Although Xu Han has moved away from the original novel’s setting, she feels that fate continues to pull her toward its central characters and conflicts.
• Trust and self-preservation: Xu Han is compassionate but understands that repeated offenders cannot be trusted easily. Her rejection of Gu Yanqing reflects her attempt to avoid future danger, even as she feels emotionally affected by him.
• Domestic warmth and rural life: The shared breakfast, vegetable harvest, animal care, and village interactions create a peaceful, intimate atmosphere that contrasts with the threats surrounding Xu Han.
• Humor and superstition: Yellow Immortal’s bravery and Alai’s offering of a pig’s head provide comic relief and reinforce the villagers’ belief in the animal’s unusual abilities.

Character interactions

• Xu Han confronts and intimidates Qiao Xinde and Luo Yangxiu before reluctantly forgiving them.
• Gu Yanqing supports Xu Han during the confrontation and discusses ways to improve the household’s security.
• Xu Han and Gu Yanqing share a tender domestic moment while caring for Koukou, though Xu Han abruptly withdraws when she learns Gu Mingyuan is involved.
• Grandma Qiao observes their closeness and mistakenly interprets it as a romantic reconciliation.
• Xu Han praises Yellow Immortal, while the animal responds affectionately.
• Alai respectfully approaches Xu Han to fulfill his vow to Yellow Immortal.

Chapter Summary: “Big Client”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Alai returns to thank Yellow Immortal for supposedly helping him find a wife. He brings a large pig’s head as an offering and asks for two children and a happy family, leaving Xu Han both amused and exasperated.
• Xu Han privately jokes that Yellow Immortal should help her find a wealthy customer who can buy the surplus vegetables from her two gardens. She also wishes to become richer than Gu Yanqing so her son will no longer envy Gu Yanqing’s wealth.
• The next day, her joking “wish” appears to come true when Tan Yue, a wealthy man who donated a teaching building to Dongyang Elementary School, arrives to purchase her vegetables.
• Tan Yue learned about Xu Han’s produce from Principal Qiu, who had given him a basket of her vegetables. Impressed by their quality and flavor, he travels to the village to buy more.
• Xu Han serves Tan Yue her homemade green tea before taking him to inspect the gardens. He praises the tea and shows interest in her agricultural work.
• Tan Yue notices that both gardens are overflowing with ripe vegetables, many of which may spoil because Xu Han has difficulty selling them locally. Xu Han explains that she may have to pickle or dry the excess produce.

Character Developments

• Xu Han: Remains practical and skeptical, dismissing Alai’s successful matchmaking as coincidence rather than proof of Yellow Immortal’s supernatural power. However, Tan Yue’s arrival makes her question whether the animal’s supposed powers might actually be real. She is also shown to be generous and resourceful, giving vegetables to neighbors and the school and considering preservation methods for the surplus.
• Yellow Immortal: Continues to be treated as a mysterious “Great Immortal” by the villagers, despite behaving like an ordinary pig. His apparent ability to grant wishes becomes increasingly suspicious after both Alai’s marriage prospects and Xu Han’s hoped-for customer materialize.
• Alai: Becomes more earnest and superstitious, enthusiastically repaying Yellow Immortal and making further wishes for children and family happiness.
• Tan Yue: Is introduced as wealthy, courteous, refined, and approachable. Unlike the aloof Gu Yanqing, he makes others feel comfortable and appears genuinely appreciative of Xu Han’s produce and hospitality.

Significant Themes

• Superstition versus coincidence: Xu Han insists that Yellow Immortal’s “miracles” are coincidences, but events repeatedly seem to fulfill wishes made to him.
• Rural abundance and practical hardship: Although Xu Han’s gardens produce exceptionally well, the abundance creates a new problem: finding buyers before the vegetables spoil.
• Class and wealth: Tan Yue’s willingness to travel for high-quality rural food contrasts with Xu Han’s modest lifestyle. Xu Han’s wish to surpass Gu Yanqing’s wealth reflects her concern over her son’s envy and her desire for financial security.
• Generosity and community: Xu Han shares her harvest with neighbors and the school, while Tan Yue’s donation to the elementary school establishes him as someone who uses his wealth to benefit others.
• Contrasting personalities: Tan Yue’s warmth and gentleness are set against Gu Yanqing’s intimidating aloofness, establishing Tan Yue as a more immediately approachable figure.

Character Interactions

• Alai reverently thanks Yellow Immortal and offers him a pig’s head, while Xu Han reacts with disbelief and irritation at his excessive superstition.
• Xu Han humorously makes a wish to Yellow Immortal, treating him more like a possible source of luck than a genuine immortal.
• Xu Han and Tan Yue exchange polite conversation over tea, with Tan Yue complimenting both the tea and her hospitality.
• Tan Yue accompanies Xu Han to her gardens, showing concern over her unsold produce and beginning a potentially important business relationship.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

• Tan Yue suggests that Xu Han sell her family’s high-quality vegetables beyond the village by supplying a farmhouse restaurant in Town. The restaurant could serve the vegetables to tourists and sell the raw produce, allowing Xu Han to reach outside customers without worrying about transportation or spoilage.
• He encourages her to think bigger: eventually opening her own restaurant, taking advantage of the Town’s growing tourism industry and the renovated Matchmaker Temple, and developing her vegetables into a recognizable brand, especially through products such as dehydrated vegetable crisps.
• Tan Yue gives Xu Han his business card, revealing that he is the chairman of Shangfu Group, though she does not immediately recognize the company.
• He takes a large quantity of vegetables with him and leaves after expressing his expectation that they will meet again.
• Xu Han celebrates her earnings and jokingly asks Yellow Immortal to help her second wish come true. When she pets him too enthusiastically, he retaliates by releasing an extremely foul fart. She punishes him by withholding a day’s food.
• Inspired by Tan Yue, Xu Han decides to proceed cautiously rather than immediately open a restaurant. She takes vegetables to Town to approach the owner of a farmhouse restaurant, but the owner dismisses her before she can fully explain.

Character developments

• Xu Han gains confidence and ambition. Although she is cautious and lacks business experience, Tan Yue’s advice makes her realize that her vegetables could become a profitable enterprise. She begins taking practical steps toward expanding her sales.
• Tan Yue displays strong business sense, generosity, and encouragement. He acts as a mentor, helping Xu Han recognize opportunities she had overlooked. His identity as a powerful businessman adds significance to their relationship.
• Yellow Immortal remains mischievous, proud, and easily offended. His comic retaliation highlights his unusual intelligence and magical nature.

Significant themes

• Ambition versus caution: Xu Han prefers steady, manageable progress, while Tan Yue urges her to dream more boldly.
• Entrepreneurship and opportunity: The chapter emphasizes branding, tourism, market expansion, and finding intermediaries to overcome logistical problems.
• Self-confidence and personal growth: Xu Han begins to believe that she may be capable of building a successful business despite her lack of experience.
• Humor and domestic companionship: The playful conflict between Xu Han and Yellow Immortal provides comic relief and reinforces their unusual household bond.

Character interactions

• Tan Yue and Xu Han share a supportive, lightly flirtatious conversation, with him offering practical advice and her responding with growing admiration and motivation.
• Xu Han’s interaction with Yellow Immortal shifts from affectionate petting to comic punishment after he farts on her.
• Xu Han’s first attempted business negotiation with the farmhouse restaurant owner ends badly, establishing an obstacle she must overcome.

Chapter Summary: Vegetable Farmer Goes to the City

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Han visits a farm restaurant to sell her high-quality vegetables, but the boss initially rejects them and advises her to try guesthouses or snack shops instead.
• Rather than carry the vegetables home, Xu Han gives the boss a bag as a free sample and leaves her contact information, hoping the boss will place an order after tasting them.
• She visits the Agricultural Taobao Station to collect a package and investigates dehydrated vegetables after remembering Tan Yue’s suggestion. She researches the necessary equipment and discovers that a good dehydrator costs nearly forty thousand yuan.
• Xu Han decides not to invest immediately. She plans to buy and taste commercial dehydrated vegetables first, then experiment with traditional drying methods before considering equipment or sales.
• After returning home, Xu Han reunites with Koukou, who is unusually clingy and cries when she does not immediately pick him up. She nurses him, jokes about whether he missed her or merely wanted milk, and shares a playful, affectionate moment with him.
• Xu Han tells Grandma Qiao that she plans to travel to X City to end the lease on her old apartment, sort through her remaining belongings, and send useful items back. Because Koukou appears deeply upset when separated from her, she decides to bring him along.
• Grandma Qiao is quietly relieved to learn that Xu Han does not intend to move back to the city permanently.
• That evening, the farm restaurant boss contacts Xu Han and suddenly expresses interest in buying her vegetables. However, she aggressively haggles, trying to purchase them far below Xu Han’s normal prices.
• Xu Han recognizes that the restaurant prioritizes profit and likely buys unsold greenhouse produce cheaply while selling vegetable dishes to customers at highly inflated prices. Although resentful of the boss’s attempts to exploit farmers, Xu Han firmly refuses to lower her price beyond what she can reasonably afford.

Character Developments

• Xu Han: Becomes more commercially cautious and independent. She investigates dehydrated vegetables but refuses to make a costly investment without testing the product and confirming that she has a viable market. She also demonstrates stronger negotiating skills, defending the value of her labor and refusing an unfair deal.
• Koukou: Shows increasing attachment to Xu Han and growing awareness of her absence. His behavior—waiting by the door, crying when she delays picking him up, and seeking affection—reveals his strong emotional bond with her.
• Grandma Qiao: Continues to provide emotional support and practical care for Koukou. Her relief at Xu Han’s decision not to return permanently to the city suggests concern about losing Xu Han and Koukou from village life.
• Farm restaurant boss: Her attitude shifts rapidly from dismissive to eager once she realizes the vegetables may be profitable. Despite wanting the produce, she remains calculating and attempts to force Xu Han into accepting an exploitative price.

Significant Themes

• Fair compensation and exploitation: The chapter contrasts the hard work of farmers with businesses that seek to maximize profits by purchasing produce as cheaply as possible.
• Cautious entrepreneurship: Xu Han approaches new business opportunities carefully, emphasizing research, experimentation, and reliable sales channels rather than impulsive spending.
• Mother-child attachment: Koukou’s distress at Xu Han’s absence and their affectionate reunion emphasize the emotional importance of their relationship.
• Rural and urban life: Xu Han’s planned trip to X City represents her effort to close out her former life while building a new livelihood in the countryside.
• Self-reliance and negotiation: Xu Han increasingly stands up for herself, refusing to let wealthier buyers undervalue her products or labor.

Character Interactions

• Xu Han and the restaurant boss clash over the value of Xu Han’s vegetables, with Xu Han remaining polite but firmly rejecting unreasonable bargaining.
• Xu Han and Koukou share a warm, humorous nursing scene that highlights their closeness and his developing personality.
• Grandma Qiao reassures Xu Han that Koukou truly missed her and explains how he waited for her return.
• Xu Han and Grandma Qiao discuss the upcoming city trip, with Grandma Qiao’s reaction revealing her emotional investment in Xu Han’s continued presence in the village.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Han ends a frustrating ten-minute negotiation with Boss Xu, who refuses to raise her offer for Xu Han’s farmstay vegetable supply.
• Feeling that she mishandled the deal, Xu Han contacts Tan Yue on WeChat for advice.
• Tan Yue explains that Xu Han has undervalued her produce. Because the vegetables taste better than ordinary greenhouse-grown produce, she should emphasize their rarity and charge more.
• He proposes a longer-term strategy: Xu Han should initially accept the farmstay owner’s low price as a form of advertising. Once customers become attached to the delicious vegetables and the farmstay gains a reputation for serving them, Xu Han can renegotiate at a higher price.
• Tan Yue reassures Xu Han that the small short-term loss is insignificant compared with normal advertising costs. His advice helps her understand the value of marketing and consumer psychology.
• After arranging the farmstay deliveries, Xu Han prepares to travel to City X to visit her close friend Tang Yueyue. Grandma Qiao will manage matters at home, with village residents helping deliver vegetables.
• To avoid bringing fresh vegetables while caring for Koukou, Xu Han makes dried fruit and vegetable snacks from okra, carrots, broccoli, purple sweet potatoes, potatoes, apples, and bananas.
• The snacks turn out exceptionally well: crisp, sweet, fragrant, colorful, and even more appealing than store-bought versions. The roasted okra loses its disliked slimy texture and becomes chip-like.
• Grandma Qiao, Aunt Li, and even the previously sulking Yellow Immortal enjoy the snacks. Xu Han makes additional sweet and savory batches, distributes some to relatives and neighbors, and packs the rest for her trip.

Character Developments

• Xu Han recognizes her weakness in negotiation and begins learning to view her produce as a valuable brand rather than simply cheap vegetables. She becomes more open to strategic business thinking and experiments successfully with a new product.
• Tan Yue emerges as calm, perceptive, and commercially knowledgeable. He gives Xu Han practical advice while teasing her affectionately, revealing growing warmth and familiarity between them.
• Grandma Qiao and Aunt Li continue to support Xu Han’s household and respond positively to her food-making efforts.
• Yellow Immortal softens toward Xu Han after being won over by the snacks, showing a humorous return to their earlier affection.
• Xu Han’s connection with Tang Yueyue is reinforced as she prepares to visit her longtime friend.

Significant Themes

• Business strategy and branding: The chapter emphasizes positioning, perceived value, consumer psychology, and using short-term concessions as advertising.
• Learning through failure: Xu Han’s failed negotiation becomes an opportunity to gain experience and adopt a more sophisticated business perspective.
• Resourcefulness and entrepreneurship: She transforms farm produce into a portable, higher-value snack product.
• Family and community support: Relatives and neighbors help with deliveries, childcare, tasting, and household responsibilities.
• Growing romantic affection: Tan Yue’s gentle voice and playful compliment affect Xu Han deeply, suggesting increasing emotional intimacy.

Character Interactions

• Xu Han and Boss Xu clash over the vegetable price, leaving Xu Han frustrated.
• Xu Han and Tan Yue exchange messages and voice notes; he advises her professionally while joking about her beautiful voice, making her blush.
• Xu Han discusses the snacks with Grandma Qiao and Aunt Li, who praise them.
• Her food wins back Yellow Immortal’s affection after their brief estrangement.
• Xu Han prepares gifts for Tang Yueyue, showing the importance of their friendship.

Chapter Summary: “Meeting Again”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• After spending six months back in the countryside, Xu Han returns to the city with her infant son, Koukou. Traveling alone with a baby has been exhausting, so she decides to fly rather than make the journey by other means.
• Her friend Tang Yueyue picks her up at the airport in her own car. She is surprised that Xu Han has not tanned from farm life and jokes about Xu Han’s unexpectedly polished appearance.
• Tang Yueyue eagerly holds Koukou. When he moves suddenly, she accidentally kisses his forehead, leaving a bright red lipstick mark. The incident leads to playful teasing and laughter among the three.
• They return first to the house Xu Han had previously rented. Xu Han begins sorting through her belongings, giving some items to Tang Yueyue, planning to sell others, and discarding the rest before moving out.
• The landlady informs Gu Yanqing’s assistant, Wang Xiao, that “Qiao Wanqing” has returned. Gu Yanqing happens to be in the city and cancels his schedule to visit her, bringing along his three-year-old cousin’s son.
• While packing, Tang Yueyue asks Xu Han about her future and whether she still has feelings for Gu Yanqing. Xu Han insists that she gave up on him long ago and avoids discussing the possibility of him acknowledging Koukou.
• The chapter ends with Xu Han changing Koukou’s diaper and distracting Tang Yueyue from the serious conversation by offering her homemade dried vegetables and fruit.

2. Character Developments

• Xu Han: Appears more composed, mature, and self-sufficient after her time in the countryside. She has adapted to motherhood and handles Koukou’s care with confidence. Although she claims to have moved on from Gu Yanqing, her reluctance to discuss him suggests unresolved emotional tension. Her return to the city marks a major turning point and the beginning of her planned rise in status and wealth.
• Tang Yueyue: Remains lively, affectionate, and humorous. She is excited to reunite with Xu Han and quickly bonds with Koukou. Beneath her joking nature, she genuinely worries about Xu Han’s future as a single mother and wonders whether Xu Han should reconnect with Gu Yanqing.
• Koukou: Depicted as cheerful, sociable, and affectionate. He enjoys being teased and held, responds with laughter, and is comfortable around Tang Yueyue despite being attached to his mother.
• Gu Yanqing: Though he does not appear directly in the main interaction, his immediate decision to cancel his schedule and visit after learning of Xu Han’s return shows continued interest and anticipation.
• Wang Xiao and the landlady: Their actions help bring Gu Yanqing and Xu Han back into contact.

3. Significant Themes

• Motherhood and independence: Xu Han is determined to raise Koukou herself despite the difficulties of single parenthood.
• Emotional avoidance and unresolved relationships: Xu Han verbally denies lingering feelings for Gu Yanqing, but the topic remains sensitive and is quickly avoided.
• Friendship and support: Tang Yueyue provides practical help, emotional concern, and comic relief during Xu Han’s return.
• Transformation and new beginnings: Xu Han has changed during her time in the countryside, and her return to the city signals a new phase in her life.
• Social status and material appearance: The discussion of designer goods and “high-end” presentation highlights the financial pressures and social ambitions associated with Qiao Wanqing’s former lifestyle.
• Family and recognition: The question of whether Gu Yanqing will acknowledge Koukou foreshadows future conflict and emotional developments.

4. Character Interactions

• Xu Han and Tang Yueyue reunite warmly, teasing each other about appearances and country life.
• Tang Yueyue develops an affectionate, playful bond with Koukou, while Xu Han watches protectively and jokes about the accidental lipstick kiss.
• Xu Han and Tang Yueyue work together to pack Xu Han’s belongings, reinforcing their cooperative friendship.
• Tang Yueyue probes Xu Han about Gu Yanqing and the child’s future, but Xu Han firmly avoids reopening the relationship.
• Gu Yanqing’s decision to seek Xu Han out establishes that the two are about to meet again, setting up the chapter’s central romantic and dramatic development.

Plot points and events

• Tang Yueyue tries Xu Han’s homemade dried vegetables and is surprised by how delicious they are. Koukou wants some too, so Xu Han lets him suck on a piece of sweet potato while she plays with him.
• A visitor arrives asking for Qiao Wanqing. Tang Yueyue lets him in, and Xu Han is startled to see Gu Yanqing, who says he came after hearing she was in the city and wanted to see Koukou.
• Koukou eagerly reaches for Gu Yanqing, who takes him and plays with him. Tang Yueyue realizes Gu Yanqing is the handsome president her friend has a crush on.
• Gu Yanqing’s young companion, Yuanyuan—whom Xu Han recognizes as Gu Mingyuan, the future male lead—also joins in. He timidly tries the vegetable snacks, enjoys them, and shares a piece with Koukou.

Character developments and interactions

• Xu Han is affectionate and playful with Koukou, but is taken aback by Gu Yanqing’s unexpected visit and uneasy about the story’s key characters meeting.
• Koukou shows his curiosity and easygoing affection, eagerly accepting attention from both Gu Yanqing and Gu Mingyuan.
• Gu Yanqing is warm and practiced with Koukou, while showing gentle care toward Gu Mingyuan.
• Gu Mingyuan appears frail and shy, but is curious about the snacks and quickly warms to the children.
• Tang Yueyue enjoys Xu Han’s food, then realizes she has inadvertently let Gu Yanqing into the home and watches the awkward encounter unfold.

Significant themes

• Unexpected family bonds: Koukou readily connects with Gu Yanqing and Gu Mingyuan, complicating Xu Han’s feelings.
• Everyday warmth: Food, teasing, and childcare create a cozy contrast with Xu Han’s unease.
• Fate and story awareness: Xu Han recognizes Gu Mingyuan as a major figure from the book, making this chance meeting feel consequential.

Chapter Summary

• Xu Han prepares to leave X City: With her belongings packed, Xu Han plans to return to the countryside because Gu Yanqing refuses to marry her. When Gu arrives holding the child, she is startled and unhappy. He introduces the child as his nephew, Gu Mingyuan, implicitly clarifying that the boy is not his son.
• The landlord arrives: The landlord, who had informed Gu Yanqing about Xu Han’s situation, comes to settle the apartment’s rent and utilities. Xu Han is initially suspicious and resentful because the landlord had previously refused to refund her money when she tried to end the lease.
• Gu Yanqing supports Xu Han: The landlord suddenly becomes accommodating, offering to refund the deposit and expenses. Gu realizes she had unfairly charged Xu Han for the entire rental period despite Xu Han’s absence and pressures her to provide a proper refund. Ultimately, the landlord returns three months’ rent and the deposit—15,000 yuan in total.
• Xu Han gains satisfaction and softens slightly: Xu Han is pleased to recover the money and feels that Gu Yanqing has helped her vent her anger. She privately acknowledges that he looked handsome while intimidating the landlord. When Gu asks her to treat him and the child to dinner as thanks, however, she is surprised and confused.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Xu Han and Gu Yanqing: Their conversation remains tense because Xu Han believes Gu’s refusal to marry her makes staying in X City pointless. Nevertheless, Gu actively protects her interests, revealing a more considerate and dependable side. Xu Han begins to feel a small stir of attraction despite her resentment.
• Gu Yanqing and Gu Mingyuan: Gu is caring and attentive toward Mingyuan, carrying him and patiently removing the child’s hand from his mouth. His behavior contrasts with his emotional distance from his biological son, Koukou.
• Xu Han and the landlord: Xu Han confronts the landlord over her previous unfairness but mainly uses Gu’s support to reclaim part of the money she had been denied.
• Gu Yanqing and the landlord: Gu dominates the negotiation with his authority, forcing the landlord to refund substantially more than she initially intended.

Significant Themes

• Protection and hidden concern: Gu’s intervention suggests that although he and Xu Han are emotionally estranged, he is unwilling to let her be mistreated.
• Justice and power imbalance: The landlord’s reversal shows how people who exploit the vulnerable may become submissive when confronted by someone more powerful.
• Family responsibility: The author clarifies that Gu Mingyuan is Gu Yanqing’s cousin’s son, whom Gu cares for because of the boy’s tragic circumstances. Gu’s continued care for Mingyuan does not negate his relationship with his biological son, Koukou.
• Slow-burn romantic tension: Xu Han’s reluctant appreciation of Gu’s actions hints at a gradual softening in their relationship, even as misunderstandings and disagreements remain.

Chapter Summary

The chapter begins with an authorial clarification about Gu Yanqing’s relationship with Koukou and his cousin’s nephew. At this point, Gu Yanqing has not considered making his nephew an heir, nor does he believe that caring for the boy is unfair to Koukou. He initially took in the child simply because the boy was having difficulties at home. His attitude toward Koukou has developed gradually—from indifference and reluctance to hold him, to awkwardly carrying and feeding him—reflecting his slow acceptance of having an unexpected illegitimate son. His infrequent visits are attributed both to his busy work schedule and to his respect for Xu Han’s wishes when she asks him not to come.
The original novel’s future plot is also explained. Much later, when Koukou is in elementary school, the villain’s father—still unmarried and unaware that he has a biological son—adopts and grooms his talented cousin’s nephew as a prospective heir. The biological son and the adopted heir’s eventual conflict is reserved for later revelations. Readers are reminded that Gu Yanqing’s current behavior should not yet be interpreted as deliberate favoritism or heir-making.
The main narrative then shifts to the Gu residence. Mrs. Gu and Miss Tan are waiting for Gu Yanqing, but his assistant, Wang Xiao, arrives instead and explains that Gu has been delayed by work. Mrs. Gu becomes irritated because she specifically ordered her son to return for dinner, even insisting that no business obligation should take priority. Miss Tan responds calmly and tells Mrs. Gu that Gu Yanqing should focus on his work, adding that she will now remain in the country and will have many opportunities to see him. Her tactful, agreeable manner greatly improves Mrs. Gu’s impression of her.
Mrs. Gu complains that her thirty-year-old son is still unmarried and refuses to consult the family about marriage, comparing his stubbornness to his father’s. Miss Tan sympathizes by mentioning that her own parents are also anxious for her to marry. Their conversation reinforces Mrs. Gu’s approval of Miss Tan and hints that she may view her favorably as a potential match for Gu Yanqing.
Meanwhile, Xu Han has her belongings sent from the hotel and checks out. Since Gu Yanqing recently helped her, she feels obligated to accept his invitation to dinner. He takes her to the prestigious and difficult-to-book Fragrant Garden restaurant, where his influence makes securing a table effortless. Afterward, Xu Han intends to ride with Tang Yueyue, but Tang’s car is filled with belongings, leaving no suitable space for Xu Han to sit while holding Koukou.

Character Developments and Interactions

• Gu Yanqing: Slowly becomes more comfortable with Koukou, though he remains emotionally restrained. He is also shown as powerful and busy, with his work frequently interfering with family obligations.
• Koukou: His presence gradually draws Gu Yanqing into a paternal role, despite the child’s unexpected arrival in his life.
• Xu Han: Maintains emotional distance from Gu Yanqing but accepts dinner after his assistance, suggesting a cautious and practical relationship.
• Mrs. Gu: Worries about her son’s unmarried status and is easily won over by Miss Tan’s considerate responses.
• Miss Tan: Presents herself as understanding, modest, and supportive of Gu Yanqing, earning Mrs. Gu’s approval.
• Wang Xiao: Serves as the messenger between Gu Yanqing and his mother, carefully managing the tense situation.
• Tang Yueyue: Attempts to help Xu Han with transportation, though her crowded car creates a practical problem.

Significant Themes

• Gradual acceptance of parenthood: Gu Yanqing’s relationship with Koukou develops realistically rather than through instant affection.
• Misunderstood intentions: Present actions should not be confused with the original novel’s later inheritance plot.
• Family expectations and marriage pressure: Mrs. Gu’s anxiety reflects traditional expectations that Gu Yanqing should establish a family.
• Emotional restraint and slow-burn relationships: Xu Han and Gu Yanqing continue to interact indirectly, with obligation and practicality standing in for open affection.
• Favorability and social performance: Miss Tan’s carefully considerate behavior improves her standing with Mrs. Gu, emphasizing how approval can be cultivated through polite interactions.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Han rides in Gu Yanqing’s car and deliberately tries to increase Gu Mingyuan’s favorability toward her by discussing and offering him the vegetable snacks she grew and prepared herself.
• Gu Mingyuan is impressed by Xu Han and eagerly accepts her offer to send snacks home. Xu Han privately hopes her kindness will make him less hostile toward her son in the future.
• Gu Yanqing observes that Xu Han seems entirely different from the woman he previously knew, finding her current behavior unexpectedly cute and likable.
• During the drive, Gu Yanqing receives a call informing him that Miss Tan has arrived at his home and that his mother wants him to return.
• Xu Han recognizes Tan Yue as an important figure from the novel’s background. Tan Yue’s younger sister, Tan Xiao, once liked Gu Yanqing, and the Tan family later obstructed the male lead’s career. Xu Han becomes secretly excited because Tan Yue is known to be intelligent, capable, and difficult for Gu Yanqing to handle.
• Gu Yanqing invites Xu Han to eat at his home despite the interruption, joking that one more meal would not matter after all the food he has already taken from her.
• After arriving in the city, Koukou is overwhelmed and delighted by the unfamiliar nighttime scenery. Xu Han struggles to hold him because of his energetic kicking and movement.
• Gu Yanqing takes Koukou from Xu Han, allowing her to rest. Tang Yueyue arrives shortly afterward and notices that Gu Yanqing, Xu Han, and the two children look remarkably like a harmonious family.

Character Developments

• Xu Han: Continues using her knowledge of the novel to protect herself and improve her relationships. She actively seeks Gu Mingyuan’s approval, while also showing genuine affection for his cuteness. Her inner thoughts remain humorous and opportunistic, especially when she anticipates Gu Yanqing encountering difficulties with Tan Yue.
• Gu Mingyuan: Quickly warms to Xu Han after tasting her homemade snacks. His admiration and innocent questions make him more comfortable around her.
• Gu Yanqing: Begins to view Xu Han in a more favorable light, recognizing that she is very different from the manipulative woman he expected. He also displays a more relaxed, shameless, and playful side than his supposedly reserved characterization in the novel.
• Koukou: Shows his energetic, curious nature while experiencing the city for the first time.
• Tang Yueyue: Becomes confused by the apparent closeness between Gu Yanqing and Xu Han, since she had believed he disliked Xu Han.

Significant Themes

• Changing established fate: Xu Han’s actions and personality differ from the original plot, causing relationships and character impressions to develop in unexpected ways.
• Food as affection and strategy: Xu Han uses her cooking both to care for the children and to strategically build goodwill.
• The contrast between reputation and reality: Gu Yanqing’s harsh image and novel characterization conflict with his increasingly warm, teasing behavior.
• Emerging family dynamics: Although Xu Han and Gu Yanqing are not truly a couple, their interaction with the two children creates the appearance—and perhaps the beginnings—of a family unit.
• Humor through self-awareness: Xu Han’s private commentary, especially about being shameless and manipulating events, creates a playful contrast with the more serious original storyline.

Important Character Interactions

• Xu Han charms Gu Mingyuan by praising and sharing her homemade food.
• Gu Yanqing silently observes Xu Han and begins reconsidering his negative impression of her.
• Xu Han and Gu Yanqing exchange teasing remarks about his habit of eating at her home.
• Gu Yanqing helps Xu Han by taking the energetic Koukou from her arms.
• Tang Yueyue witnesses the family-like closeness between the group and questions her assumptions about Gu Yanqing’s feelings toward Xu Han.

Chapter Summary

• Dinner and Gu Yanqing’s growing involvement: The group has dinner at a restaurant, where Xu Han teasingly asks Gu Yanqing to feed his hungry son, Koukou. Gu Yanqing awkwardly attempts to feed him but briefly brings the spoon to his own mouth to test its temperature. Koukou misunderstands and looks deeply hurt, creating a humorous father-son moment. Gu Yanqing later leaves early under the pretense of taking a call, secretly paying the bill despite Xu Han having intended to treat everyone. Xu Han initially feels conflicted but rationalizes that he is simply repaying her hospitality.
• Quiet journey home: On the drive to Tang Yueyue’s apartment, Gu Yanqing and Koukou both fall asleep. Gu Yanqing creates a calm atmosphere with soft music and tells Xu Han to rest, but she remains cautious because she still does not know him well. Their conversation reveals that Xu Han plans to leave the city soon and has no plans to go sightseeing because traveling with a child is inconvenient. Gu Yanqing listens thoughtfully, suggesting a continued but restrained interest in her life.
• Xu Han’s business idea: Before parting, Xu Han gives Gu Yanqing several jars of homemade dried fruits and vegetables for Gu Mingyuan, honoring a previous promise. She also hopes Tang Yueyue will distribute samples at her workplace so she can test whether the products might sell. Xu Han imagines eventually turning surplus farm produce into a commercial product line or even establishing her own brand.
• Practical obstacles: Tang Yueyue points out that Xu Han will need production and food-hygiene permits before selling the food professionally. Xu Han realizes she has overlooked this important issue but decides to investigate the application process. Tang Yueyue encourages her, noting that individual producers and popular online food businesses can obtain approval.
• Character development and relationships: Xu Han is shown becoming more purposeful and independent, treating farming and food production as a genuine future rather than merely an escape from her previous life. Tang Yueyue remains supportive but practical, balancing encouragement with realistic advice. Gu Yanqing demonstrates care through small actions—feeding Koukou, paying for dinner, and ensuring Xu Han’s comfort—though the romance between him and Xu Han is intentionally progressing slowly. His awkward interactions with Koukou also begin to establish a warmer father-son bond.
• Themes: The chapter emphasizes gradual emotional connection, parental bonding, independence, and turning simple rural work into a viable livelihood. It also contrasts Xu Han’s cautiousness with Gu Yanqing’s understated consideration and highlights the importance of practical preparation behind personal dreams.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

Xu Han reassures Tang Yueyue that she is living comfortably and invites her to visit. The following day, Gu Yanqing sends Xu Han a stylish stroller for Koukou, believing it will make outings easier. Though initially reluctant to accept his generosity, Xu Han uses it when she goes shopping with Tang Yueyue. They buy a warm down jacket for Grandma Qiao and baby supplies and clothing for Koukou. While shopping, they encounter Wen Yao, a former acquaintance who resents Qiao Wanqing for once trying to pursue Wen Yao’s wealthy boyfriend. Wen Yao sarcastically accuses Xu Han of finding a rich man and attempts to provoke a confrontation, but Xu Han avoids escalating the situation.

Character developments

Xu Han continues to present herself as independent and cautious, resisting Gu Yanqing’s help because she does not want to owe him anything. However, she gradually accepts practical assistance for Koukou’s sake. Her fear of repeating Qiao Wanqing’s tragic fate makes her wary of interpreting Gu Yanqing’s kindness romantically. Tang Yueyue remains enthusiastic and supportive, encouraging Xu Han to consider a possible relationship with Gu Yanqing, while also showing her impulsive, affectionate personality through her excitement over baby products. Wen Yao is established as hostile and resentful toward Xu Han.

Significant themes

The chapter explores independence versus accepting help, especially in Xu Han’s relationship with Gu Yanqing. It also emphasizes motherhood and family responsibility through Xu Han’s efforts to provide for Koukou and Grandma Qiao. Another important theme is the contrast between Xu Han’s current cautious behavior and Qiao Wanqing’s past mistakes, as well as the difficulty of escaping a person’s former reputation.

Character interactions

Xu Han and Tang Yueyue share a warm, teasing friendship, with Tang Yueyue pushing Xu Han to acknowledge Gu Yanqing’s apparent interest. Gu Yanqing communicates his consideration indirectly by sending the stroller, despite Xu Han’s reluctance. The encounter with Wen Yao introduces social tension: Wen Yao uses sarcasm to shame Xu Han, while Tang Yueyue defends her. Xu Han restrains Tang Yueyue from responding aggressively, choosing to avoid conflict and potential manipulation.

Chapter Summary: “Black Marketing”

Key Plot Points and Events

• As Xu Han, Tang Yueyue, and baby Koukou prepare to leave a store, Wen Yao grabs the stroller and falsely claims that Xu Han deliberately hit her.
• Wen Yao pretends to be seriously injured, clutching her stomach and accusing Xu Han of harming her despite being pregnant. She turns the surrounding crowd against Xu Han and Tang Yueyue.
• Xu Han remains calm and suggests checking the store’s surveillance footage to determine what really happened. She also warns Wen Yao and her husband, Mr. Qi, that their influence will not protect them if the matter is exposed.
• The store manager arrives and offers to retrieve the security footage, but Mr. Qi prevents the issue from escalating and attempts to leave with Wen Yao.
• Tang Yueyue openly accuses Wen Yao of staging a scam and trying to extort money. To calm the dispute, the manager gives Xu Han and Tang Yueyue an 88% discount on their purchases.
• Although the confrontation appears settled, a bystander uploads a video of the incident. A marketing account reposts it, causing the dispute to become a viral Weibo controversy and reach the trending searches.
• Online spectators split into opposing sides. Some support Wen Yao as a pregnant woman, while others defend Xu Han. Trolls and misogynists also attack Xu Han’s appearance, accusing her of plastic surgery and cosmetic enhancements.

Character Developments

• Xu Han: Demonstrates composure, intelligence, and strategic thinking under pressure. Rather than losing her temper, she relies on the existence of surveillance footage and directly challenges Wen Yao’s manipulation.
• Tang Yueyue: Remains outspoken and hot-tempered, immediately defending Xu Han and criticizing Wen Yao. Though she eventually accepts the discount, she continues joking about how the couple might have been extorting money.
• Wen Yao: Is revealed as manipulative, shameless, and willing to exploit her pregnancy and public sympathy to frame Xu Han. She becomes unsettled by Xu Han’s unexpected calmness and confidence.
• Mr. Qi: Appears more restrained and practical than Wen Yao. He stops her from prolonging the confrontation, tells her to behave, and prioritizes avoiding public exposure.
• The Store Manager: Tries to remain neutral but is mainly concerned with preventing trouble. His attempt to appease both sides highlights how easily social pressure can influence disputes.

Significant Themes

• Manipulation of public perception: Wen Yao uses a false accusation and her status as a pregnant woman to make bystanders assume she is the victim.
• Truth versus appearances: The incident shows how quickly people judge based on incomplete information, while surveillance footage represents objective evidence.
• Power and social influence: Wen Yao’s confidence comes from her husband’s backing, suggesting that wealth and connections can make people feel capable of twisting the truth.
• Online sensationalism: Once the video reaches social media, the original facts become secondary to outrage, speculation, and factional arguments.
• Gendered online harassment: Xu Han is attacked not only over the incident but also for her beauty, showing how internet crowds redirect controversy into misogynistic criticism.

Character Interactions

• Xu Han and Wen Yao directly clash over the alleged stroller incident, with Xu Han calmly demanding evidence while Wen Yao performs distress.
• Tang Yueyue aggressively defends Xu Han and challenges both Wen Yao and the manager.
• Mr. Qi restrains Wen Yao and attempts to end the dispute before the surveillance footage can be reviewed.
• The manager mediates between the women and ultimately offers a discount to settle the matter.
• The public becomes an indirect participant, transforming a private confrontation into a widespread online controversy.

Chapter Summary

• Escalation of the baby-store incident: The confrontation between Xu Han/Qiao Wanqing and the pregnant Wen Yao becomes a major trending topic on Weibo. The online narrative initially favors Wen Yao, portraying Xu Han as the aggressor and exposing her to possible harassment and doxxing. Xu Han regrets becoming involved and worries about Tang Yueyue, who may suffer lasting consequences despite having helped her.
• Failed attempts to obtain evidence: Tang Yueyue tries to use her connections to suppress the controversy and retrieve security footage from the baby store. The store refuses to release it, supposedly to protect customer privacy, suggesting that someone powerful is deliberately blocking access.
• Tan Yue offers help: Desperate, Xu Han considers asking Gu Yanqing for assistance, but Tan Yue contacts her first after recognizing her from the viral video. He is surprised to learn that she has a child, though he remains focused on her unfavorable public situation. When he offers to help, Xu Han eagerly accepts, relieved that she can rely on his influential background instead of begging Gu Yanqing.
• The truth becomes public: Before Tan Yue can act, the controversy is resolved. A video showing the entire incident is posted by a credible account, making it clear that Wen Yao was at fault. Public opinion quickly turns against Wen Yao, and the original trending topic is removed. Xu Han thanks Tan Yue, but he reveals that someone else acted even more quickly. She uninstalls Weibo after witnessing the hostile online discussion.
• Gu Yanqing’s intervention: Gu Yanqing is the person who secretly handled the crisis. Concerned that his son might become involved in the scandal, he orders the footage to be obtained and released long enough to establish the truth, then removes the related material from the internet. He also threatens Wen Yao and her husband, warning them that any further attacks on Xu Han will have serious consequences—implicitly, financial ruin.
• Gu Yanqing questions Xu Han’s identity: The investigation reports that Xu Han and Wen Yao supposedly became enemies because Xu Han wanted to steal Wen Yao’s wealthy boyfriend. Gu Yanqing finds this believable based on Qiao Wanqing’s past manipulation and her previous attempt to use him for social advancement. However, Xu Han’s recent behavior seems fundamentally different, leading him to wonder whether having a child truly changed her and what kind of person she really is.
• Character interactions and development: Xu Han and Tang Yueyue’s friendship is reinforced as Xu Han worries about the danger Tang Yueyue faces. Xu Han develops greater trust in Tan Yue and plans to repay his kindness with dried vegetables. Tan Yue shows concern for her reputation and well-being, while Gu Yanqing protects her indirectly without revealing himself. His viewing of Koukou’s innocent, sleepy appearance also highlights his growing awareness of the child and his complicated feelings toward Xu Han.
• Themes: The chapter explores the danger of online public opinion, the power of influence and reputation management, the contrast between truth and manipulated narratives, and the difficulty of separating a person’s past identity from their present behavior. It also develops themes of hidden protection, maternal responsibility, personal transformation, and emerging romantic tension.

Key plot points and events

• Gu Yanqing watches the video of Qiao Wanqing calmly handling an attempt to set her up and becomes intrigued by her.
• While caring for Koukou, Xu Han gets a call from Gu Yanqing. He tells her he has dealt with the online incident and advises her not to go out while people are still trying to identify her.
• Gu Yanqing explains that the mother-and-baby store orchestrated the incident as a marketing stunt. He has arranged for evidence to be gathered and a lawyer to contact Xu Han and her friend, with plans to sue for compensation.
• Relieved that the crisis is being handled, Xu Han looks forward to returning to the village after two exhausting days in the city.
• The following night, Gu Yanqing comes home to find his mother viewing a photo of Koukou from the trending online incident. She remarks that the baby resembles Gu as a child, unaware that the image has exposed Koukou’s face.

Character developments and interactions

• Gu Yanqing grows more interested in Qiao Wanqing after seeing her composure. He also takes decisive action to protect Xu Han and Koukou, and enjoys Xu Han’s sudden gratitude after her initial irritation at his having obtained her number.
• Xu Han shifts from guarded annoyance to relief and appreciation when she learns Gu Yanqing is helping them. Her affectionate, comic struggle to dress mischievous Koukou shows her easy warmth as a mother.
• Koukou remains cheerful and mischievous, responding happily to Gu Yanqing’s voice.
• Mrs. Gu appears to have moved past the previous awkwardness with her son and eagerly shows him Koukou’s photo.

Significant themes

• Privacy and exploitation: The store’s deceptive promotion turns ordinary people into material for publicity, while the unblurred photo raises further concerns about exposure.
• Protection and justice: Gu Yanqing uses his resources to pursue accountability rather than letting the marketing stunt go unchallenged.
• Domestic comedy and romance: Xu Han’s playful caregiving and banter with Gu Yanqing offset the stress of the public scandal, while his interest in her continues to grow.
• Return to a simpler life: Xu Han’s eagerness to leave the city reflects her preference for the calmer, more familiar village life.

Chapter 37 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Mrs. Gu discovers that Gu Yanqing has been viewing videos of Koukou and suspects the child may be his grandson. Gu Yanqing dismisses it as coincidence and intends to erase the browsing history.
• Gu Yanqing chooses not to reveal Koukou’s existence to his mother, wanting to respect Qiao Wanqing’s wishes and protect her from interference.
• Mrs. Gu pressures Gu Yanqing to marry and have a child, even arranging a meeting with a young woman from the Tan family. Gu Yanqing refuses, explaining that he is returning to C City for work.
• Gu Yanqing reflects that he values genuine love over practical compatibility and would rather remain single than marry without meeting the right person. He privately acknowledges that already having a son makes single life seem acceptable.
• Xu Han is discharged and returns home with Koukou. At the airport, people recognize her from the previous day’s news, forcing her to wear a mask and hide Koukou’s face.
• Back home, Xu Han reunites warmly with Yellow Immortal, who is remarkably patient with Koukou despite normally being proud and easily annoyed. Xu Han rewards the animal with dried chicken.
• Grandma Qiao joyfully welcomes Koukou and tells Xu Han about a proposed match: a handsome, financially stable widower with no children who supposedly does not mind accepting Koukou.
• Xu Han rejects the matchmaking, irritated that villagers assume she needs a husband simply because she is a young divorcee with a child. She asks Grandma Qiao to refuse such offers in the future.
• Grandma Qiao then cautiously begins asking Xu Han about her relationship with Mr. Gu.

Character Developments

• Gu Yanqing: Reveals his protectiveness toward Qiao Wanqing and Koukou by concealing the child from Mrs. Gu. He remains emotionally detached from marriage and values love and personal choice over social expectations.
• Mrs. Gu: Becomes increasingly forceful and frustrated in her desire for a grandson, using matchmaking and emotional pressure to push Gu Yanqing toward marriage.
• Xu Han: Demonstrates independence and confidence, rejecting the idea that she needs remarriage. Her discomfort with public attention contrasts with her firm refusal to let village gossip dictate her life.
• Koukou: Continues forming a close bond with Yellow Immortal, freely tugging at the animal’s ears and tail.
• Yellow Immortal: Shows unusual gentleness and loyalty toward Koukou, becoming a helpful and tolerant companion.
• Grandma Qiao: Shows deep affection for Koukou while also reflecting the village’s concern with Xu Han’s marital status.

Significant Themes

• Family secrecy and protection: Gu Yanqing hides Koukou’s identity to prevent complications and honor Qiao Wanqing’s wishes.
• Pressure to marry and have children: Mrs. Gu’s demands and the villagers’ matchmaking highlight social expectations placed on adults, especially women.
• Love versus practicality: Gu Yanqing believes marriage should be based on genuine feelings, not convenience or family suitability.
• Independence and gossip: Xu Han refuses to let rumors or other people’s assumptions determine her choices.
• Warmth of home and unconventional family bonds: Xu Han’s reunion with Grandma Qiao, Koukou, and Yellow Immortal emphasizes the comfort of family and companionship.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Mrs. Gu argue humorously over Koukou, marriage, and the lack of a Gu family grandson.
• Xu Han and Koukou share a playful reunion with Yellow Immortal, whose tolerance strengthens their household bond.
• Grandma Qiao lovingly embraces Koukou but also participates in local matchmaking traditions by suggesting a potential husband for Xu Han.
• The chapter ends with Grandma Qiao preparing to question Xu Han about her apparent connection with Gu Yanqing.

Chapter 38 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Han reassures Grandma Qiao that she has no romantic future with the man Grandma is concerned about and asks her to stop worrying.
• She returns to her normal rural routine, harvesting vegetables and preparing a clear-broth hot pot with fresh beef, tripe, pork bone, and homegrown produce.
• After putting Koukou to bed, Xu Han reviews her finances. Following refunds, vegetable payments, and various sales, she has about 63,000 yuan remaining.
• Xu Han considers starting an online store to sell her family’s dried fruits and vegetables. However, Tang Yueyue explains the complexity of e-commerce, including paid traffic, fake orders, advertising, and other hidden costs. Xu Han realizes the business would be risky and decides to prioritize offline sales while studying the online market.
• Gu Yanqing adds Xu Han on WeChat. She accepts because he previously helped her, though she remains determined to avoid becoming entangled with him.
• Gu Yanqing asks about Koukou and then requests to buy Xu Han’s dried fruits and vegetables. She refuses, despite secretly recognizing him as a potentially valuable customer.
• When he asks her to make more, Xu Han deliberately sends a provocative message suggesting that she move in with him and let him “eat” her instead. She expects this flirtatious remark to frighten him away, and he does not respond for a long time.
• Xu Han concludes that she must focus on offline sales for now and considers hiring help if the farmhouse restaurant’s business grows.

Character Development

• Xu Han remains practical, independent, and guarded. She carefully evaluates her finances and business plans rather than blindly pursuing an unrealistic opportunity.
• She shows strong self-control regarding Gu Yanqing, refusing to use their past connection for financial gain even though his company could provide a major market.
• Xu Han also reveals a mischievous, defiant side by deliberately provoking Gu Yanqing with an exaggerated flirtatious message.
• Her responsibilities continue to expand: caring for Koukou, farming, fulfilling vegetable orders, studying business, and considering future employees.
• Gu Yanqing continues attempting to establish contact with Xu Han under the pretext of buying her products. His persistence suggests that he is interested in maintaining a connection, though Xu Han interprets his actions cautiously.
• Grandma Qiao remains a supportive presence who worries about Xu Han’s romantic and personal future.

Significant Themes

• Independence and self-reliance: Xu Han wants to build a stable livelihood through her own work rather than depending on others.
• The gap between dreams and reality: Her assumptions about the ease of opening an online store are challenged by the complicated and expensive nature of e-commerce.
• Boundaries and emotional distance: Xu Han accepts Gu Yanqing’s contact out of gratitude but tries to prevent the relationship from developing further.
• Home and authenticity: Despite the abundance of city life, Xu Han feels that her simple home-cooked food and naturally grown produce are more satisfying and genuine.
• Entrepreneurial pressure: The chapter highlights the financial risks and exhausting labor involved in turning small-scale farming into a business.

Character Interactions

• Xu Han and Grandma Qiao discuss Xu Han’s romantic prospects, with Xu Han insisting that she knows what she is doing.
• Xu Han cares for Koukou after dinner, emphasizing her role as a mother.
• Tang Yueyue indirectly influences Xu Han’s plans by giving her an honest assessment of online retail.
• Gu Yanqing and Xu Han exchange restrained WeChat messages about Koukou and her dried goods. Xu Han repeatedly keeps him at a distance, ultimately using provocative humor to discourage his pursuit.

Chapter Summary: “A Love Triangle”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Xu Han considers finding someone to help her grow and harvest vegetables, but hesitates because her supernatural “golden finger” must remain secret. She worries that villagers will gossip and expose her secret.
• Gu Yanqing messages her after a phone call, approving her idea and inviting her over. His flirtatious remark—“I’m curious what you taste like”—embarrasses Xu Han and prompts her to ignore him.
• As the Lunar New Year approaches, Plum Blossom Mountain attracts many tourists, causing nearby farmhouse restaurants to become extremely busy.
• Demand for Xu Han’s unusually delicious vegetables rises sharply. She must now deliver large quantities every day instead of every three days.
• Boss Cai, the farmhouse restaurant owner, becomes friendlier and suspects that Xu Han’s vegetables are genetically modified. She denies this and explains that she uses careful cultivation and farm manure.
• Xu Han suggests that Boss Cai sell her vegetables raw as well as serving them in cooked dishes. She persuades him that selling the vegetables could increase both his reputation and profits.
• Boss Cai agrees to test the idea, while Xu Han negotiates a higher price. The increased business makes her realize that she may need a three-wheeled cargo vehicle and a local delivery driver.
• While shopping for duck blood and offal, Xu Han is unexpectedly recognized by Zhong Xiumei, her deceased mother’s younger sister. Because Qiao Wanqing had been distant from her relatives, Xu Han initially does not remember her.
• Zhong Xiumei asks whether Xu Han has returned to visit her family, opening the possibility of renewed contact with her maternal relatives.

Character Developments

• Xu Han: Becomes more cautious and strategic about protecting her secret, while also demonstrating growing business sense. She successfully negotiates with Boss Cai and begins considering how to expand her vegetable operation.
• Gu Yanqing: Shows increasing boldness and romantic interest through his teasing, suggestive messages.
• Boss Cai: Changes from an arrogant customer into a cooperative business partner after recognizing the quality and commercial potential of Xu Han’s vegetables.
• Zhong Xiumei: Is introduced as a previously distant relative who may provide Xu Han with information or emotional connections to her mother’s family.

Significant Themes

• Trust and secrecy: Xu Han struggles with the risks of revealing her extraordinary abilities in a close-knit village where rumors spread quickly.
• Entrepreneurship and opportunity: Rising tourism creates new commercial possibilities, and Xu Han uses her education and practical thinking to expand her business.
• Romantic tension: Gu Yanqing’s flirtation adds a playful romantic element and likely contributes to the chapter’s “love triangle” setup.
• Family and reconnection: The unexpected meeting with Zhong Xiumei hints at unresolved family history and the possibility of rebuilding ties after years of estrangement.
• Value and scarcity: Xu Han recognizes that the exceptional quality and limited supply of her vegetables allow her to charge higher prices.

Important Character Interactions

• Xu Han and Gu Yanqing: Their messages are flirtatious, with Gu Yanqing directly expressing curiosity about her and Xu Han reacting with embarrassment and playful resistance.
• Xu Han and Boss Cai: They discuss the quality, pricing, and marketing of her vegetables. Xu Han persuades him to sell them directly, establishing a stronger business relationship.
• Xu Han and the restaurant helper: The helper treats Xu Han warmly and respectfully, reflecting her improved standing among the restaurant staff.
• Xu Han and Zhong Xiumei: Their unexpected reunion brings Xu Han face-to-face with a maternal relative and ends the chapter with questions about her return home and family connections.

Chapter Summary

• Xu Han reconnects with family: Xu Han encounters her second aunt, Zhong Xiumei, while out. Zhong is surprised to learn that Xu Han has stopped working outside the home and now grows vegetables. She updates Xu Han on the family: her grandmother died the previous year, her eldest uncle’s family moved to the city, and she and her husband remain in the village farming and raising poultry. Xu Han invites her to visit, but Zhong postpones the visit and promises to return with her husband.
• Unexpected visitors arrive: When Xu Han gets home, she finds Tan Yue, Grandma Qiao, Tan Yue’s younger sister Tan Xin, and baby Koukou there. Tan Yue explains that he came to buy vegetables before the New Year and brought Tan Xin as a surprise. Tan Xin is notably beautiful and behaves warmly toward Xu Han while showing interest in Koukou.
• Tan Xin investigates Koukou: Tan Xin asks whether Koukou is Xu Han’s child and comments on his unusual name and resemblance to Gu Yanqing. When Koukou babbles “baba,” Tan Xin assumes he may be calling for his father. Xu Han dismisses this as meaningless infant sounds, though she privately suspects Tan Xin has come to investigate whether Koukou is Gu Yanqing’s hidden child after seeing news of Xu Han’s conflict with Wen Yao.
• Xu Han protects Koukou’s secret: Xu Han realizes that Tan Xin is close to the Gu family and might tell Mrs. Gu about Koukou. She considers calling Gu Yanqing to deal with Tan Xin but decides against it, fearing that revealing Koukou’s identity could cause Mrs. Gu to try to take the child. Xu Han’s protectiveness and attachment to Koukou outweigh her desire to remove the potential threat.
• Mother-and-child interaction: Xu Han takes Koukou inside to feed him. Their affectionate exchange highlights their close bond: she kisses and comforts him, jokes about his refusal to call her “Mama,” and tries to teach him the word. Koukou instead happily repeats “baba,” becoming so excited that he stops drinking and spills milk on himself.

Character Developments

• Xu Han is shown as independent, cautious, and deeply attached to Koukou. She remains wary of becoming entangled with characters from the original novel and carefully conceals Koukou’s parentage.
• Zhong Xiumei provides background on Xu Han’s changed family circumstances and suggests a possible renewed connection with Xu Han’s relatives.
• Tan Yue continues visiting Xu Han under the practical pretext of buying vegetables while also functioning as a link between Xu Han and the Gu family.
• Tan Xin is introduced as Tan Yue’s attractive younger sister and appears to be romantically interested in Gu Yanqing. Her questions suggest she may be investigating Koukou’s identity.
• Koukou displays growing vocal ability and personality, repeatedly making “baba” sounds and deepening Xu Han’s emotional attachment to him.

Themes

• Protective motherhood and attachment: Xu Han’s fear of losing Koukou reveals how fully she regards him as her child.
• Secrecy and potential conflict: Koukou’s resemblance to Gu Yanqing threatens to expose Xu Han’s carefully guarded secret.
• Intrusion of the original novel’s characters: Xu Han is frustrated that people connected to the novel keep entering her life despite her attempts to avoid them.
• Family change and reconnection: The conversation with Zhong Xiumei reflects how the family has changed while suggesting that Xu Han may gradually reconnect with her relatives.
• Comic domestic warmth: Koukou’s babbling and Xu Han’s attempts to teach him “Mama” provide humor and tenderness amid the growing threat of discovery.