Chapter Summaries

Chapter 28 Summary: “Playing Matchmaker”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing, Gu Yanqing, Tang Yueyue, and Qiao’s family discuss where to build the planned vegetarian restaurant near Meishan’s Matchmaker Temple.
• Gu Yanqing argues that the restaurant should be located by the back-mountain road rather than beside the stone steps. Tourists who climb the mountain will likely prefer the easier downhill route, while customers visiting specifically for the restaurant can reach the back mountain directly by car.
• He suggests promoting the restaurant on future signs and maps near the steps so tourists will know about it despite its less central location.
• Qiao Wanqing and her second uncle accept his reasoning and decide to inspect the back-mountain site.
• Afterward, the group visits the plum-blossom area. The mountain is crowded with tourists, confirming that the area has strong commercial potential.
• The chapter ends with Gu Yanqing asking whether the friend who inspired Qiao Wanqing’s idea to sell fresh vegetables was Tan Yue, hinting at his awareness of her personal connections.

Character Developments

• Gu Yanqing demonstrates practical business insight and long-term thinking. He focuses on customer convenience, travel patterns, accessibility, and advertising rather than simply choosing the most visually prominent location.
• Qiao Wanqing shows herself becoming more receptive to Gu Yanqing’s advice and more confident in her entrepreneurial plans. She recognizes that her initial ideas were somewhat limited and readily changes the restaurant’s proposed location.
• Tang Yueyue increasingly notices the romantic tension between Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing. She views their teasing and natural closeness as evidence that they may have feelings for each other.
• Qiao Wanqing’s family trusts the group’s discussion and agrees to investigate the back-mountain site.
• Koukou remains a cheerful, playful child who enjoys the plum blossoms and becomes the subject of his mother’s teasing.
• Yuan Yuan shows a more mature and self-conscious side by refusing to wear a flower because he believes flowers are only for girls.

Significant Themes

• Business strategy and practicality: Success depends not only on location but also on transportation, customer movement, and convenience.
• Entrepreneurial growth: Qiao Wanqing’s vegetable sales and plans for a vegetarian restaurant show her increasing financial independence and business awareness.
• Romantic development: Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing’s playful exchanges reveal growing familiarity and affection.
• Family warmth and everyday happiness: The plum-blossom outing highlights the group’s comfortable, family-like interactions.
• Modern consumer habits: The characters acknowledge that tourists may avoid unnecessary walking, making accessibility essential.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing calmly advises Qiao Wanqing, Tang Yueyue, and her second uncle on the restaurant’s placement, earning their agreement.
• Qiao Wanqing privately praises Gu Yanqing as farsighted, while he teasingly reminds her that she once found him annoying. Their banter suggests increasing intimacy.
• Tang Yueyue observes their interaction and feels overwhelmed by their obvious chemistry, secretly taking a family photo.
• Qiao Wanqing playfully decorates Koukou with plum blossoms and tries unsuccessfully to persuade Yuan Yuan to wear one.
• Gu Yanqing watches the mother-and-child interaction with amused indulgence, revealing his softer side.
• At the end, Gu Yanqing asks about Tan Yue, suggesting curiosity—or possible jealousy—regarding Qiao Wanqing’s relationships.

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing asks Gu Yanqing for his opinion on Tan Yue’s business advice. Although she expects him to dismiss it because of his strained relationship with Tan Yue, Gu Yanqing admits that the idea is good.
• Gu Yanqing questions why Qiao Wanqing has such a poor opinion of him. He reflects on their complicated past, including their one-night stand, his initial coldness after learning she was pregnant, and the compensation he gave her.
• Qiao Wanqing explains that her dislike comes from not getting what she wanted from him in the past, suggesting that love can turn into resentment and hatred. Gu Yanqing finds her explanation unexpectedly reasonable.
• During their outing at Meishan, a husky becomes interested in Yellow Immortal, the group’s pet weasel. Yellow Immortal rejects the husky harshly, amusing everyone.
• After touring the area, the group returns through town. Qiao Wanqing buys a duck with Gu Yanqing’s money, intending to prepare duck congee.
• Qiao Wanqing cooks an elaborate dinner featuring duck congee, chopped duck, and two additional dishes. Everyone enjoys the meal, especially the warm, rich congee.
• Tang Yueyue expresses regret that work will soon force her to leave. Qiao Wanqing invites everyone to visit again and support her planned vegetarian restaurant.
• Gu Yanqing remains silent about the difficulties of starting the restaurant but privately considers how he might assist Qiao Wanqing.
• Qiao Wanqing brings out homemade red yeast rice wine. The adults drink while the children taste or ask about it; Yuan Yuan finds it spicy, while Gu Yanqing refuses to let Koukou drink.

Character Development

• Qiao Wanqing appears more relaxed after resolving a major concern and gains confidence in her plans to open a vegetarian restaurant. Though she still claims to dislike Gu Yanqing, her teasing and willingness to include him in conversation reveal increasing ease around him.
• Gu Yanqing shows greater self-awareness about his past behavior and is affected by Qiao Wanqing’s lingering resentment. His willingness to praise Tan Yue’s idea and his quiet intention to help with the restaurant demonstrate growing consideration and restraint.
• Tang Yueyue remains playful and supportive, enthusiastically encouraging Qiao Wanqing’s business ambitions.
• Yellow Immortal is characterized as proud, aloof, and comically aggressive toward the flirtatious husky.
• Yuan Yuan and Koukou contribute warmth and humor through their curiosity about the wine.

Significant Themes

• Lingering resentment and unresolved romance: Qiao Wanqing’s comments reveal that her hostility toward Gu Yanqing comes from past emotional disappointment rather than simple dislike.
• Changing relationships: Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing’s interactions are becoming more comfortable, with teasing and mutual consideration replacing some of their earlier hostility.
• Independence and ambition: Qiao Wanqing’s plan to open a vegetarian restaurant marks her effort to build a future and identity through her own work.
• Family and companionship: The shared trip, meal, and playful interactions emphasize the warmth of an unconventional but increasingly close group.
• Food as emotional connection: Preparing and sharing a lavish local meal creates a sense of comfort, celebration, and belonging.

Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing teases Gu Yanqing about his supposed disdain for Tan Yue, prompting him to defend his character.
• Their exchange about “love turning into resentment” exposes the emotional history between them while maintaining a flirtatious, argumentative tone.
• Tang Yueyue jokes about Yellow Immortal’s treatment of the husky, adding comic relief and teasing Gu Yanqing through the pet.
• The group praises Qiao Wanqing’s cooking and encourages her restaurant plans.
• Gu Yanqing interacts gently with the children over the wine, showing a more caring and protective side.

Chapter Summary: “Weaning”

Key plot points and events

• During dinner, Tang Yueyue teases the tipsy Qiao Wanqing by comparing her to a famously beautiful “drunken imperial consort.” She then openly tries to play matchmaker between Qiao and Gu Yanqing, pointing out their compatibility and the fact that they already have a child together.
• Embarrassed and unwilling to discuss the possibility of a relationship, Qiao retreats to her room, making her rejection clear.
• Alone, Qiao reviews the plans for her vegetarian restaurant. She calculates that land, construction, furnishings, kitchen equipment, and other startup costs will require at least 300,000 yuan, while she currently has only about 100,000 yuan available. She worries about borrowing money and the risk of failure.
• Gu Yanqing later brings their sleeping son, Koukou, to Qiao’s room and puts him to bed. He asks why she is hiding there, leading Qiao to explain her business plans.
• Gu offers her the compensation expected from a legal case involving a maternity-and-baby store’s exploitative promotional campaign using her. Qiao refuses to keep the money and asks him to donate it to charity instead.

Character developments

• Qiao Wanqing remains wary of romance despite recognizing Gu Yanqing’s admirable qualities. Her fear of the original novel’s predetermined plot and of becoming “cannon fodder” causes her to reject the possibility of marrying him. At the same time, she shows growing independence and ambition through her detailed plans to establish a vegetarian restaurant.
• Gu Yanqing continues to behave calmly and supportively. He does not pressure Qiao about Tang Yueyue’s matchmaking and instead focuses on caring for Koukou and helping Qiao solve her financial concerns.
• Tang Yueyue acts as an outspoken, mischievous friend who genuinely wants Qiao and Gu to become a couple. She respects Qiao’s capabilities and believes Qiao is fully worthy of Gu despite his wealth and status.
• Koukou remains a quiet source of connection between Qiao and Gu, with Gu taking responsibility for putting him to bed.

Significant themes

• Fear versus personal desire: Qiao may see Gu as an ideal partner, but her fear of the novel’s predetermined fate prevents her from acting on her feelings.
• Independence and self-reliance: Qiao is determined to build a business with her own abilities rather than depend on Gu’s money or status.
• Financial pressure and entrepreneurship: The chapter realistically explores the risks and costs of starting a business, including construction, equipment, loans, and the possibility of failure.
• Emotional restraint and gradual romance: The awkwardness between Qiao and Gu contrasts with Tang Yueyue’s direct encouragement, suggesting that their relationship is developing slowly.
• Integrity and charity: Qiao’s refusal to accept compensation connected to an exploitative campaign reflects her discomfort with profiting from something she considers unethical.

Character interactions

• Tang Yueyue’s teasing forces Qiao and Gu to confront the possibility of romance, though Qiao immediately escapes the conversation.
• Gu and Qiao share a quieter, more practical interaction when he puts Koukou to bed and discusses her restaurant plans.
• Gu’s offer of financial help demonstrates his concern for Qiao, while her request to donate the compensation establishes her moral boundaries and desire to remain financially independent.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing refuses Gu Yanqing’s offer of money, even when he frames it as a loan. Because her original fate was ruined by greed and financial dependence on him, she is determined to avoid any monetary entanglement.
• Gu Yanqing instead offers practical assistance: he can introduce her to the owner of a successful vegetarian restaurant in C City so she can learn from their experience. Qiao Wanqing accepts gratefully, viewing this as a fair exchange for having hosted him and Yuan Yuan.
• On the sixth day of the Lunar New Year, Gu Yanqing and Yuan Yuan return home. Before leaving, Tang Yueyue sends Qiao Wanqing a candid “family portrait” taken during their stay, which emotionally affects Qiao Wanqing.
• Qiao Wanqing’s farmhouse restaurant reopens, and vegetables from her second planting are harvested and sold. She deliberately reduces the unusual cultivation of out-of-season produce so that her farm’s success will not attract suspicion.
• Her second uncle and aunt come to help prepare the land for the vegetarian restaurant, including planting vegetables and building fences. They agree to accept 130 yuan per day despite her offer of higher wages.
• Qiao Wanqing continues concealing Koukou’s supernatural secret. She mixes his Spirit Urine into ordinary fertilizer so her relatives will not discover the truth.
• She buys a tricycle for nearly 8,000 yuan to transport vegetables and signs the lease for the Meishan plot on the ninth day of the New Year.
• Funding remains Qiao Wanqing’s greatest concern. She decides to build only one floor initially and expand later if the business succeeds, minimizing the risk to her family’s finances.
• Tang Yueyue secretly transfers 50,000 yuan to her, asking only for a lifetime free membership at the future restaurant. Qiao Wanqing is deeply moved by her friend’s generosity.
• Construction begins through a reliable small contractor recommended by Qiao Wanqing’s second uncle. The building is expected to take about a month, followed by renovation and a two-month airing period, placing the restaurant’s opening around the Dragon Boat Festival.
• Koukou becomes especially attached to the formula Gu Yanqing purchased. As Qiao Wanqing’s milk supply declines and Koukou begins biting while nursing, she and Grandma Qiao decide to wean him after eight months of breastfeeding.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Shows stronger financial boundaries, caution, and independence. She is determined not to repeat the greed and dependence that led to her tragic original fate. At the same time, she learns to accept help when it comes in practical or emotionally healthy forms. Her plans for the vegetarian restaurant demonstrate responsibility and careful risk management.
• Gu Yanqing: Becomes increasingly curious about Qiao Wanqing’s dramatic personality change. Rather than pressing her with money, he offers useful connections and recognizes her need for independence.
• Tang Yueyue: Proves herself to be a loyal and generous best friend through both her warm family photograph and substantial financial support.
• Koukou: Develops a strong fondness for formula and is reaching a new stage of growth, with teeth and the beginning of weaning.
• Qiao Wanqing’s second uncle and aunt: Support her business plans through practical labor, accepting modest wages and helping establish the farm and restaurant.

Significant Themes

• Independence and redemption: Qiao Wanqing consciously avoids the financial dependence that destroyed her in her former life.
• Trust and healthy assistance: The chapter contrasts unwanted financial entanglement with support offered through friendship, family labor, and useful professional introductions.
• Practical responsibility: Qiao Wanqing carefully controls expenses, starts with a single-floor building, and plans gradual expansion rather than gambling recklessly.
• Secrecy and abnormality: She protects Koukou’s secret because she fears others would view his supernatural nature as frightening or sinister.
• Family and friendship: The family photograph and Tang Yueyue’s financial gift highlight the emotional security Qiao Wanqing is gradually building around herself.
• Growth and transition: The restaurant project advances while Koukou reaches an important developmental milestone through weaning.

Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing discuss money, revealing her discomfort with owing him and his growing interest in understanding her transformation.
• Gu Yanqing offers to introduce her to an experienced vegetarian restaurateur, creating a more comfortable form of cooperation between them.
• Tang Yueyue’s photograph captures Qiao Wanqing, Gu Yanqing, Yuan Yuan, and Koukou in a warm family-like moment, deepening Qiao Wanqing’s emotional attachment to the group.
• Qiao Wanqing negotiates wages and work arrangements with her second uncle and aunt as they help prepare the land.
• Tang Yueyue supports Qiao Wanqing financially in a selfless gesture that strengthens their friendship.
• Qiao Wanqing consults Grandma Qiao about weaning Koukou, showing cooperation within the family as the child grows.

Chapter Summary: “Back in the City”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Koukou continues demanding breast milk despite preferring formula. He mostly plays with Qiao Wanqing’s nipple rather than drinking, making weaning difficult.
• Following Grandma Qiao’s advice, Qiao Wanqing applies ginger juice to her breasts. Koukou repeatedly tries to nurse, spits out the spicy milk, and eventually cries before accepting formula.
• After several repetitions over two days, Koukou concludes that his mother’s milk has become unpleasant and stops demanding it. The weaning process succeeds without separating him from Qiao Wanqing.
• After the Lantern Festival, business at the farmhouse restaurant slows, but Qiao Wanqing’s vegetables remain in demand. She sells supplies to the restaurant, several small eateries, and private customers arranged by Boss Cai.
• Boss Cai has developed a profitable delivery system for wealthy customers in the county and C City, ordering fresh vegetables twice a month. This gives Qiao Wanqing a stable outlet for her produce.
• Qiao Wanqing’s second uncle suggests leasing the nearby hill to grow fruit and vegetables for city visitors to pick themselves. She refuses because she promised Boss Cai not to sell fresh vegetables independently and lacks the time and resources.
• With matters at home settled, Qiao Wanqing prepares to travel to C City to investigate vegetarian restaurants and plan her own business. She is considering an ordering system first, possibly expanding to a buffet later, but worries about costs, staffing, and childcare.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Demonstrates patience and practicality as a mother, using Grandma Qiao’s method to wean Koukou. She also becomes more business-minded, carefully balancing vegetable production, existing agreements, finances, and future restaurant plans.
• Koukou: Reveals his mischievous, dramatic personality. Though he pretends to want breast milk, he prefers formula and eventually adapts when nursing becomes unpleasant.
• Grandma Qiao: Provides traditional childcare advice and continues crocheting handmade goods to sell, contributing to the household economy.
• Boss Cai: Emerges as an especially capable entrepreneur. She expands from restaurant operations into organized vegetable deliveries and builds a reliable customer base.
• Second Uncle: Helps Qiao Wanqing with harvesting and deliveries, while also offering ideas for expanding the business.

Significant Themes

• Motherhood and weaning: The chapter humorously portrays the emotional difficulty of weaning and the bond between mother and child.
• Family cooperation: Qiao Wanqing’s relatives help with childcare, handicrafts, harvesting, and deliveries, allowing her to pursue wider ambitions.
• Practical entrepreneurship: Stable customers, supply management, delivery schedules, and business agreements are emphasized as essential to long-term success.
• Balancing ambition with limits: Qiao Wanqing recognizes that expanding too quickly could overwhelm her financially and personally.
• Traditional wisdom versus modern business: Grandma Qiao’s old-fashioned parenting method contrasts with Qiao Wanqing’s developing, more organized commercial plans.

Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing and Koukou share a playful but frustrating mother-son struggle over breastfeeding, ending with her gently tricking him into accepting formula.
• Grandma Qiao observes them, offers advice, and reassures Qiao Wanqing that the method is common and effective.
• Qiao Wanqing and her second uncle discuss vegetable demand, Boss Cai’s business practices, and possible expansion opportunities.
• Qiao Wanqing respects Boss Cai’s business ability but privately finds her overly stingy.
• Qiao Wanqing’s family support enables her to leave for C City and explore the possibility of opening a vegetarian restaurant.

Page 66 Summary

• Plot and events: Qiao Wanqing travels with Koukou from their town to C City to meet the eccentric owner of the property Gu Yanqing mentioned. Because the man sleeps during the day and only appears at night, she must stay overnight. The journey requires multiple buses and takes several hours. Upon arrival, Gu Yanqing arranges for his driver, Feng Qi, to collect them and take them to a nearby hotel. Feng Qi also orders food for Qiao Wanqing at Gu Yanqing’s insistence. Gu Yanqing is delayed by an unexpected business partner but plans to take Qiao Wanqing and Koukou to a vegetarian restaurant that evening.
• Character developments: Qiao Wanqing remains practical and self-reliant, initially refusing excessive assistance, but she is also a cautious and attentive mother. She constantly watches Koukou and narrowly prevents him from falling off the hotel bed. Koukou is growing older and more aware of his surroundings; he is less openly excitable in the city but remains curious and adventurous. Gu Yanqing demonstrates his considerate yet controlling nature by arranging transportation, meals, and Qiao Wanqing’s care despite being unable to accompany her immediately.
• Character interactions: Feng Qi politely assists Qiao Wanqing, introduces himself, carries her luggage, and offers to arrange food or take her sightseeing. Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing speak by phone, with him checking that she arrived safely and explaining his unexpected work obligation. Their conversation is interrupted when Koukou nearly falls, causing Gu Yanqing to become concerned. Qiao Wanqing also recognizes Feng Qi from the original novel and recalls his future betrayal of the Gu family under Gu Siqiao’s manipulation.
• Significant themes: The chapter emphasizes parental responsibility, as Qiao Wanqing must balance travel and practical tasks with constant vigilance over Koukou. It also develops the contrast between Qiao Wanqing’s independence and Gu Yanqing’s protective, commanding care. The novel’s themes of fate and foreknowledge appear through Qiao Wanqing’s awareness of Feng Qi’s tragic future, highlighting her anxiety over the “ill-fated ties” surrounding the Gu family and her possible desire to change the original plot.

Chapter Summary: “Dinner Together”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing catches Koukou just as he nearly falls from the bed, then calls Gu Yanqing to discuss their plans.
• While preparing formula, she hears nine-month-old Koukou say “mama” for the first time. Overjoyed, she kisses him repeatedly and proudly posts about it on social media.
• Qiao Wanqing dresses up carefully for dinner, wearing makeup, a black dress, a coat, high heels, and styled hair.
• Gu Yanqing arrives to pick her up and is visibly stunned by her appearance. He realizes that although he had previously considered her beautiful without noticing her specially, his attitude toward her has changed.
• Koukou happily reaches for Gu Yanqing, who holds him and praises him for learning to say “mama.”
• Qiao Wanqing brings a gift and prepares to leave with Gu Yanqing and Koukou. Gu Yanqing explains that they are meeting one of his friends at an upscale vegetarian restaurant.
• To make his friend more willing to share information with Qiao Wanqing, Gu Yanqing asks her to pretend to be his wife rather than merely his friend. He also tells her to act intimate with him.
• At the restaurant, Qiao Wanqing nervously takes Gu Yanqing’s arm. The physical closeness and his cologne create an unexpected sense of warmth and emotional unease for her.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Her maternal happiness becomes clear when Koukou says “mama.” She openly embraces the joy of motherhood, even though she once dismissed parents who proudly shared small milestones online. She also begins to react physically and emotionally to Gu Yanqing’s closeness, suggesting that her feelings may be developing despite her insistence that she has no romantic attachment to him.
• Gu Yanqing: He shows increasing attentiveness toward Qiao Wanqing and Koukou. His stunned reaction to Qiao Wanqing’s appearance reveals that his perception of her has changed significantly. He is also comfortable and affectionate with Koukou, treating him warmly and naturally.
• Koukou: He reaches an important developmental milestone by saying “mama.” He is affectionate and playful with both Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing, showing particular eagerness to be held by Gu Yanqing.

Significant Themes

• Motherhood and emotional joy: Ordinary milestones, such as a child’s first word, bring Qiao Wanqing profound happiness and deepen her bond with Koukou.
• Changing perceptions and hidden feelings: Gu Yanqing’s newfound awareness of Qiao Wanqing’s beauty, along with her nervous reaction to physical intimacy, reflects the gradual shift in their relationship.
• Pretended intimacy becoming emotionally meaningful: Although Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing plan to act like a married couple for practical reasons, their physical closeness produces genuine emotional tension.
• Family and domestic intimacy: Gu Yanqing’s natural interaction with Koukou makes the three of them resemble a family, reinforcing the chapter’s romantic and familial atmosphere.

Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing comforts, praises, kisses, and plays with Koukou after he nearly falls and later says “mama.”
• Gu Yanqing affectionately holds Koukou, kisses him, and praises his speech.
• Gu Yanqing teases and instructs Qiao Wanqing about pretending to be his wife and behaving intimately.
• Qiao Wanqing reluctantly takes Gu Yanqing’s arm at the restaurant, becoming aware of their physical closeness and experiencing an unfamiliar emotional reaction.

Key events

• Gu Yanqing takes Qiao Wanqing and their son, Koukou, to meet Mr. and Mrs. Luo, owners of an upscale private-cuisine restaurant.
• Qiao explains that she hopes to open a vegetarian restaurant elsewhere. The couple kindly shares advice about the business.
• Over an elaborate meal, Qiao is impressed that the restaurant’s ordinary vegetables taste nearly as good as her family’s produce.
• Gu takes care of Koukou throughout the meal, giving Qiao the freedom to talk with the owners. He also serves food into her bowl, prompting a shy reaction from her.
• Before they leave, Qiao gives the owners a gift box of homemade dried fruits and vegetables as thanks.

Character developments

• Qiao is initially self-conscious about linking arms with Gu in public, but gradually relaxes and enjoys the conversation. She gains practical insight for her restaurant plans.
• Gu shows attentiveness by supporting Qiao’s questions and caring for Koukou, while his casual gestures of intimacy unsettle her.
• Mr. and Mrs. Luo are welcoming and generous, offering advice and treating the family warmly.

Themes and interactions

• Growing intimacy: Qiao is awkward about public closeness and blushingly interprets Gu feeding her as an intimate gesture, though the older couple’s similar behavior offers a natural comparison.
• Partnership and support: Gu helps Qiao pursue her ambitions while taking on childcare.
• Hospitality and reciprocity: The Luos share their expertise and meal; Qiao responds with a homemade gift.
• Food and craftsmanship: The meal demonstrates how skilled cooking can make even ordinary ingredients exceptional.

Chapter Summary: “Confession”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yanqing persuades Qiao Wanqing to ride back with him instead of taking a taxi.
• Rather than going directly to the hotel, he takes her to a shopping mall. After having Feng Qi carry the sleeping Koukou, Gu Yanqing leads Qiao into a specialty shop.
• He asks the salesclerks to choose a scarf and gloves for Qiao, noticing that her hands have become badly cracked from working outdoors in the cold.
• Qiao initially refuses, explaining that gloves would interfere with her farm work and that she can protect her hands herself. However, she is secretly pleased by the attractive pink-and-gray gloves.
• Gu Yanqing personally wraps an elegant scarf around her, creating an intimate and flirtatious moment that embarrasses Qiao. She removes the scarf and puts on the gloves herself.
• He buys the limited-edition scarf and gloves without worrying about the price. He also intends to have his assistant purchase effective frostbite cream for her.
• When Qiao worries about the cost and about owing him another favor, Gu Yanqing frames the purchase as repayment for her hospitality and help. She accepts this explanation and the gifts.
• Meanwhile, Mrs. Gu travels to C City with Tan Xin after noticing that Gu Yanqing keeps rushing there. Gu Yanqing claims to be busy and unavailable, so they plan to sightsee while he works.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Her hardworking rural life has begun to affect her appearance and health, especially her hands. Although she remains proud and reluctant to accept charity, she is increasingly affected by Gu Yanqing’s considerate gestures and shows signs of growing emotional awareness toward him.
• Gu Yanqing: He displays practical concern for Qiao’s well-being, paying attention to details she ignores. His actions are protective and generous, though he disguises his concern as repayment of favors. His intimate behavior with the scarf suggests increasing attraction and familiarity.
• Mrs. Gu: She becomes suspicious of her son’s repeated trips to C City and follows him there, indicating that she may be investigating his connection to Qiao.
• Tan Xin: She accompanies Mrs. Gu to C City, potentially adding another complication to the developing relationships.

Significant Themes

• Care expressed through actions: Gu Yanqing communicates concern by buying practical gifts and arranging medicine rather than openly confessing his feelings.
• Reciprocity and emotional debt: Qiao is uncomfortable receiving kindness unless she can view it as repayment, reflecting her independence and fear of becoming indebted.
• Growing intimacy: The scarf-and-glove scene highlights the increasing physical and emotional closeness between Qiao and Gu Yanqing.
• Class differences: Qiao is conscious of Gu Yanqing’s wealth, particularly when he casually buys an expensive limited-edition item without checking the price.
• Romantic tension and concealment: Both characters avoid directly acknowledging their feelings, while their behavior increasingly suggests mutual attraction.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing persistently persuades Qiao to accept his ride and later his gifts, while she repeatedly attempts to maintain distance and independence.
• His wrapping the scarf around her and freeing her hair creates an unexpectedly intimate exchange, leaving Qiao embarrassed.
• Their conversation about the gifts reveals their different attitudes: Gu Yanqing sees them as a minor gesture, while Qiao views them as another possible obligation.
• Mrs. Gu’s decision to visit C City introduces the possibility of closer scrutiny of Gu Yanqing and Qiao’s relationship.

Chapter Summary

• Plot and events: Mrs. Gu and Tan Xin encounter Gu Yanqing while he is shopping with Qiao Wanqing and buying clothes for Koukou. Mrs. Gu immediately realizes that his claim of being occupied with “work and business entertainment” was a lie. When she demands to know who Qiao Wanqing is, Gu Yanqing unexpectedly introduces her as “the woman I love.” He explains that he is using the declaration to discourage Tan Xin, who has persistently pursued him. Mrs. Gu, embarrassed and unsettled, orders Gu Yanqing to return home and explain himself, then leaves with Tan Xin. Qiao Wanqing, worried that Mrs. Gu might discover Koukou’s existence, ends the shopping trip early. Gu Yanqing agrees to buy the child’s clothes later.

Character development

• Gu Yanqing shows increasing protectiveness and consideration toward Qiao Wanqing. He publicly claims her as his beloved, partly to help her and partly to make Tan Xin give up. He also expresses a firm belief that a future partner should not be forced to endure conflict with his parents, revealing a thoughtful and decisive attitude toward relationships.
• Qiao Wanqing remains cautious, especially about Koukou’s identity being exposed, but she cooperates with Gu Yanqing after recognizing that he is trying to help himself and protect their situation. She begins to notice his considerate qualities, though she continues to treat their relationship as an arrangement rather than genuine romance.
• Mrs. Gu is embarrassed by her son’s secrecy because she had continued arranging meetings between him and Tan Xin. Although she initially appears displeased with Qiao Wanqing, she cannot find any legitimate fault with her.
• Tan Xin is deeply shaken by Gu Yanqing’s apparent affection for Qiao Wanqing, particularly because he has always treated Tan Xin coldly.
• Character interactions: The central interaction is the tense meeting between Gu Yanqing, Qiao Wanqing, Mrs. Gu, and Tan Xin. Gu Yanqing takes control of the situation by presenting Qiao Wanqing as his lover, while Qiao Wanqing silently supports his explanation. Their later conversation becomes more relaxed and teasing, with Qiao Wanqing joking about having to deal with a difficult mother-in-law. Meanwhile, Feng Qi holds the sleeping Koukou in the car, prompting Qiao Wanqing to consider whether he may eventually become a threat to Gu Yanqing.
• Themes: The chapter highlights romantic misunderstandings, family expectations, and the tension between appearances and reality. Gu Yanqing’s fabricated confession begins to resemble genuine emotional protection, suggesting growing intimacy between him and Qiao Wanqing. The discussion of in-law relationships emphasizes the importance of boundaries, loyalty, and a partner’s willingness to defend the person they love. The ending also introduces a theme of foreknowledge and helplessness, as Qiao Wanqing worries that future betrayal cannot be prevented simply by removing one potentially dangerous person.

Chapter Summary

Plot points and events

Qiao Wanqing reflects on the Gu family’s unequal treatment of their housekeeper and driver, Feng Qi, and worries that resentment among the household staff could eventually produce another villain. She also realizes that the danger surrounding Gu Yanqing may persist as long as he continues traveling by car.
She warns Gu Yanqing not to let Mrs. Gu know about Koukou, fearing that Mrs. Gu will investigate her. After returning to the hotel, Gu Yanqing later summons Qiao downstairs and gives her ointment for chilblains and hand cream as thanks for the dried fruits and vegetables she brought for Yuan Yuan. He then unexpectedly asks her to try dating him.

Character developments

Qiao becomes increasingly aware that Gu Yanqing’s concern for her may be romantic rather than merely practical. However, her low self-esteem, memories of his hostility toward the original Qiao Wanqing, and belief that they are socially and personally mismatched make her doubt his sincerity. Gu Yanqing shows a more considerate and direct side, openly confirming that his proposal is serious rather than a joke.

Significant themes

The chapter explores social hierarchy, perceived inequality, and how resentment can lead to conflict. It also emphasizes fate and the possibility of recurring danger despite attempts to change the original story. Romantic uncertainty, class differences, self-worth, and the tension between genuine affection and preconceived expectations are central themes.

Character interactions

Gu Yanqing struggles to put Koukou to sleep but carefully adjusts his hold when the child becomes restless. He and Qiao discuss Mrs. Gu’s possible reaction, joking about the cliché of offering money to separate a couple. Later, Gu’s thoughtful gift reveals his growing attentiveness toward Qiao. His sudden confession leaves her stunned, and although she rejects the idea by arguing that their circumstances and future plans are incompatible, Gu presses her to explain why they cannot be together.

Key plot points

• Qiao Wanqing firmly rejects Gu Yanqing’s confession, explaining that she feels nothing for him and would rather keep their relationship friendly. Gu accepts her reasoning but asks if he may pursue her; she gives him no chance. He ends the conversation and leaves.
• The next morning, Qiao returns to Dongyang Village by bus instead of letting Gu arrange a ride. He neither contacts her nor visits afterward, and she assumes his confession was a passing impulse.
• As the weather warms, construction on her vegetarian restaurant is completed. Wanting a more attractive design than the local builders could provide, Qiao hires a renovation crew from Linshui County, despite the extra cost.
• Nearly ten-month-old Koukou is beginning to take steps with help. During a playful moment, he accidentally bumps his forehead against Qiao’s chin and develops a small swelling. When Qiao’s attention shifts to discussing remedies with Grandma Qiao, he cries harder and calls for “baba.”

Character developments

• Qiao Wanqing remains decisive and practical. She rejects Gu because she does not love him and worries that becoming involved would entangle her in the story’s future family conflicts. She quickly puts the confession aside and focuses on her work and child.
• Gu Yanqing shows unusual sincerity and vulnerability in making his first serious attempt at a relationship, but he respects Qiao’s answer and withdraws.
• Koukou is growing physically and beginning to speak, especially repeating “Mama” because he knows it makes Qiao happy. His reaction to being hurt shows how much he wants comfort and attention.
• Grandma Qiao offers a folk remedy—rubbing lard on Koukou’s bump—which Qiao considers doubtful.

Significant themes

• Love cannot be forced: Gu’s status and charms cannot create feelings Qiao does not have.
• Self-preservation and independence: Qiao avoids a relationship she believes could draw her into future family and story conflicts, and continues building her own life.
• Everyday motherhood: Koukou’s first steps, accidental injury, and need for reassurance highlight the tenderness and comic frustrations of caring for a young child.

Character interactions

• Qiao’s direct rejection leaves Gu disappointed, but their exchange stays respectful; he does not pressure her after she makes her position clear.
• Qiao and Koukou share an affectionate moment that turns into an accidental bump. As she comforts him, his crying intensifies when he feels she is distracted, and he seems to call for his father.

Chapter Summary

Plot points and events

After Gu Yanqing returns home, he refuses to explain his relationship with Qiao Wanqing to Mrs. Gu. She later connects Qiao to an old mother-and-baby-store incident in X City, where a child resembling Gu Yanqing had appeared. Realizing that online records of the incident have been deliberately erased, Mrs. Gu suspects her son has been secretly hiding Qiao and their child. Unable to uncover Qiao’s whereabouts through investigation, she summons Gu Yanqing’s assistant, Wang Xiao, for questioning. At an outdoor afternoon-tea meeting, she asks about Qiao, her relationship with Gu Yanqing, their child, and her current location.

Character developments

Mrs. Gu becomes increasingly suspicious and determined to uncover her son’s secret. Although she dislikes Qiao, she is not fundamentally opposed to their relationship; what troubles her is Gu Yanqing’s secrecy and the possibility that he has concealed both a woman and a child from the family. Wang Xiao is shown as cautious and resourceful. Trapped between his loyalty to Gu Yanqing and his fear of Mrs. Gu, he carefully gives technically truthful but incomplete answers to protect himself and his employer.

Character interactions

Mrs. Gu dominates the meeting through her authority and sharp observations. She watches Wang Xiao’s reactions and repeatedly pressures him with questions. Wang Xiao attempts to remain composed, claiming he only knows that Gu Yanqing helped suppress the mother-and-baby-store news and that he does not know the true nature of Gu and Qiao’s relationship. Mrs. Gu immediately recognizes that he is lying. She also orders him to drink the extremely bitter tea, turning the interrogation into a humorous form of intimidation. Wang Xiao finally begs to be spared, comparing his situation to the bitter tea: full of suffering he cannot express.

Significant themes

The chapter emphasizes secrecy, family curiosity, loyalty, and the tension between personal privacy and familial concern. It also introduces comic relief through Wang Xiao’s uncomfortable predicament, while suggesting that Gu Yanqing’s hidden past with Qiao and their child may soon be exposed.

Key plot points and events

• Mrs. Gu confirms that Koukou is Gu Yanqing’s son and, for now, stops pressing Wang Xiao. She decides to wait and see how long Gu Yanqing keeps the child a secret from her.
• Villagers continue trying to arrange a match for Qiao Wanqing, but she remains uninterested. She finds herself thinking about Gu Yanqing and feels a flicker of hope whenever she hears a car pass, though she cannot explain what she wants.
• After trying to recreate dishes from the Luo couple’s vegetarian restaurant, Qiao Wanqing realizes that identifying ingredients is not enough to match a professional chef’s skill.
• She jokes about having Yellow Immortal neutered, partly because she worries he may bring other weasels home. He does not understand her threat.
• Qiao Wanqing travels to Linshui County with Koukou and quickly secures the permits for her planned shop. Her second uncle and aunt stay behind to water and harvest vegetables for their regular customers.
• She takes Koukou for a ride on a coin-operated rocking toy. He loves it, and she balances indulging him with setting limits.
• The chapter ends abruptly when her second aunt calls with alarming news: something has happened to Qiao Wanqing’s second uncle.

Character developments and interactions

• Mrs. Gu accepts that Koukou is her grandson but remains angry at Gu Yanqing for concealing the truth.
• Qiao Wanqing shows growing, confused feelings about Gu Yanqing while keeping busy with cooking, business preparations, and caring for Koukou.
• Qiao Wanqing and Koukou share a warm, playful outing; her affection is paired with thoughtful discipline.
• Qiao Wanqing and Yellow Immortal have a comic, one-sided exchange, with her imagining plans for his future while he simply wants food.
• Qiao Wanqing and her aunt and uncle continue working together, until the aunt’s urgent call introduces a sudden crisis.

Significant themes

• Unspoken feelings and secrets: Mrs. Gu waits for the truth, while Qiao Wanqing struggles to understand her own feelings for Gu Yanqing.
• Care balanced with restraint: Qiao Wanqing enjoys making Koukou happy but believes children need boundaries.
• Skill and learning: Her failed cooking experiments highlight the gap between knowledge of ingredients and professional technique.
• Everyday life interrupted by uncertainty: Routine business and family activities end with a sudden, ominous emergency.

Chapter Summary: “Old Classmate”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing arrives at the county hospital and learns that her second uncle was seriously injured after three people from a nearby greenhouse vegetable business attacked him.
• The aggressors demanded that Qiao’s family either stop supplying vegetables to local restaurants, farm stays, and Dongyang Elementary School, or sell all their produce to them at an extremely low price.
• When Qiao’s second uncle refused, they destroyed the family’s vegetables and beat him. The family’s unusually powerful animal, Yellow Immortal, intervened and drove them away, injuring them in the process.
• Qiao Wanqing worries that the attackers may falsely claim self-defense, especially since Yellow Immortal scratched them. She reassures Second Aunt that the attackers’ trespassing, destruction of property, and the number of witnesses and injuries should support their case.
• At the hospital, Qiao learns that her second uncle has a serious head wound, a mild concussion, three broken ribs, and a fractured lower leg. However, the hospital director confirms that he should recover with treatment and does not need to be transferred.
• The chapter ends with Qiao visiting the police station, where she is told that the case is still under investigation and that both sides’ injuries complicate the matter.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing demonstrates emotional restraint and responsibility. Although furious about her uncle’s injuries, she focuses on gathering information, supporting her family, ensuring proper medical care, and seeking legal justice.
• Second Aunt is frightened and distressed but tries to remain composed. She also defends her husband’s actions, acknowledging his impulsive temper while condemning the attackers’ behavior.
• Qiao’s second uncle is shown to be hot-tempered and unwilling to submit to unreasonable demands. His refusal to back down leads to the confrontation, though he suffers severe injuries.
• Yellow Immortal reveals its protective and formidable nature. Normally affectionate and gentle, it becomes highly aggressive when the family is threatened.
• Huang Kewei, the hospital department director, is introduced as Qiao’s former middle-school classmate. He is competent, composed, modest, and subtly warm toward her.

Significant Themes

• Justice versus intimidation: The greenhouse growers attempt to use violence and economic pressure to control Qiao’s family’s business.
• Family loyalty and protection: Qiao’s relatives support one another, while Yellow Immortal physically protects the household.
• Calmness in crisis: Qiao’s ability to suppress her anger and act rationally contrasts with her uncle’s impulsiveness.
• Uncertainty of legal justice: Although the attackers appear to be the aggressors, their injuries and self-defense claims create doubt about how authorities will rule.
• Reconnection and possible romance: Qiao’s unexpected reunion with Huang Kewei introduces a potentially important relationship from her past.

Character Interactions

• Qiao comforts Second Aunt and Grandma Qiao, taking responsibility for the trouble that has affected the family.
• Second Aunt explains the confrontation and expresses concern that the attackers may manipulate the legal situation.
• Qiao speaks with Huang Kewei, who reassures her about her uncle’s condition while teasing her about not remembering him.
• Their exchange is polite but lightly flirtatious, with Huang’s attentive behavior and their decision to exchange contact information suggesting future interactions.
• Qiao’s visit to the police station highlights her determination to protect her family and obtain a fair resolution.

Chapter 76 Summary

Plot and Key Events

• After Qiao Wanqing’s family is attacked, she seeks information through Boss Cai, whose nephew works at the police station. Boss Cai helps contact him and also prepares food and bone broth for Qiao’s injured second uncle.
• Qiao Wanqing returns to the hospital, but her second aunt insists she go home with Koukou because there is no proper bed for her to stay overnight.
• Concerned that the attackers may continue causing trouble, Qiao temporarily stops vegetable deliveries to town and arranges for someone else to deliver produce to the school. Her business partners largely understand her situation.
• The next day, she brings food to the hospital. Her second uncle minimizes his injuries and reassures her, while her second aunt expresses fear and gratitude toward Yellow Immortal for protecting him.
• A police contact warns Qiao that the case may be decided against her family because the other party has influential connections. Authorities may claim that her second uncle struck first and that Yellow Immortal injured people. Qiao could face compensation costs and a fine for keeping a protected weasel without the proper permits.
• Although the injustice devastates her, Qiao considers hiring a lawyer and pursuing the matter legally. Others advise her to pay a settlement instead, warning that legal action would be expensive and might not succeed.
• Under increasing stress, Qiao loses weight while running between the hospital, her farm, and legal consultations. Grandma Qiao suggests asking Qiao Xinde’s influential family or Gu Yanqing for help, but Qiao refuses to seek assistance from Qiao Xinde’s family and hesitates to contact Gu after rejecting his confession.

Character Development

• Qiao Wanqing becomes more determined to defend her family but also experiences a painful realization of her powerlessness in the face of corruption and social connections. She struggles between preserving her dignity and accepting help.
• Second Uncle shows courage and selflessness by insisting he would rather suffer than see Qiao Wanqing harmed, though his joking bravado cannot hide how badly he was injured.
• Second Aunt is protective and fearful, urging Qiao to avoid further danger and focus on safety.
• Grandma Qiao remains practical and supportive, suggesting possible sources of influence when Qiao’s own efforts fail.
• Gu Yanqing does not appear directly, but his absence and Qiao’s reluctance to contact him highlight the emotional distance created by her rejection.

Major Themes

• Injustice and powerlessness: Despite being attacked, Qiao’s family may be treated as the guilty party because their opponents have connections.
• The limits of the law: The chapter questions whether legal systems truly protect ordinary people when influence and money affect outcomes.
• Family loyalty and sacrifice: Qiao’s relatives protect and encourage one another, while Qiao exhausts herself trying to solve the crisis.
• Pride versus seeking help: Qiao wants to preserve the dignity she has fought for, making it difficult for her to ask former adversaries or Gu Yanqing for assistance.
• Fear and vulnerability: The attack leaves the family anxious and cautious, even as they try to reassure one another.

Important Interactions

• Boss Cai supports Qiao by connecting her with his police-station nephew and providing food for the hospital.
• Qiao and her second uncle exchange reassurance, with him comforting her and telling her not to blame herself.
• Her second aunt and uncle urge her to stay safe and avoid confronting the attackers alone.
• The police contact gives Qiao discouraging information about the likely outcome and advises settlement rather than litigation.
• Grandma Qiao proposes seeking help from Qiao Xinde’s family or Gu Yanqing, but Qiao rejects the first option and remains conflicted about the second.

Chapter Summary: “Resolution”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing reassures Grandma Qiao that she will find another solution to the legal and financial crisis surrounding her second uncle and their Yellow Immortal. The opposing family is demanding 150,000 yuan, and Qiao Wanqing’s family may be held primarily responsible for the injuries.
• Grandma Qiao, worried about Qiao Wanqing’s health and burden, seeks help from Aunt Li. She asks Aunt Li to call the number on a business card, though the identity of the person is initially unclear.
• When the call is answered, Koukou recognizes the voice and excitedly calls out “Dad,” strongly implying that the person on the other end is Gu Yanqing.
• At the hospital, doctor Huang Kewei tells Qiao Wanqing that her second uncle’s condition has stabilized and that he can likely be discharged after two more days of observation.
• Huang Kewei offers further assistance by asking a well-connected friend to investigate the legal case. He also invites Qiao Wanqing to dinner, which she accepts as a way of thanking him.
• Despite her persistent efforts—posting online, consulting lawyers, and searching for solutions—Qiao Wanqing feels increasingly powerless against the influence and connections of the opposing family. She begins to believe that criminal punishment and compensation are almost unavoidable.
• The situation unexpectedly changes when Qiao Wanqing notices expensive supplements in her second uncle’s hospital room. Her uncle reveals that “Little Gu,” meaning Gu Yanqing, visited earlier.
• Gu Yanqing returns to the room just as Qiao Wanqing arrives, suggesting that he may be involved in changing the course of the case.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing remains responsible and determined, continuing to care for her hospitalized uncle and family despite exhaustion and despair. However, she is increasingly forced to acknowledge the limits of personal effort when confronted by social power and connections.
• Grandma Qiao shows her concern for Wanqing’s health and takes initiative by seeking outside help, demonstrating that she is not entirely passive despite the family’s difficult circumstances.
• Aunt Li proves supportive and sympathetic, immediately helping Grandma Qiao contact a potentially important person.
• Huang Kewei continues to act as a dependable friend and former classmate. His willingness to use his connections emphasizes his concern for Wanqing and provides her with a possible source of legal assistance.
• Gu Yanqing makes a significant but mysterious appearance. His visit to the hospital and the supplements he brings suggest that he is quietly helping Qiao Wanqing’s family, though his intentions and role in the legal matter remain unclear.
• Koukou remains cheerful and innocent amid the family crisis. His recognition of Gu Yanqing’s voice reinforces their connection and hints at Gu Yanqing’s identity as his father.

Significant Themes

• Powerlessness versus social influence: Qiao Wanqing’s efforts reveal how difficult it is for ordinary people to resist those with money and connections.
• Family responsibility: Wanqing continues working, caring for her relatives, and providing food for the hospital despite the strain on her body and finances.
• Hidden support and intervention: Help begins arriving indirectly through Grandma Qiao, Huang Kewei, and especially Gu Yanqing, suggesting that Wanqing may not be as alone as she believes.
• Hope amid despair: Although the case appears nearly doomed, Gu Yanqing’s arrival introduces the possibility of a turning point.
• Innocence and emotional contrast: Koukou’s happiness contrasts with the adults’ anxiety, providing warmth and emphasizing the protective responsibilities borne by the family.

Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing and Grandma Qiao discuss the family’s worsening legal and financial predicament, with Wanqing trying to comfort her grandmother.
• Grandma Qiao and Aunt Li share their concerns, and Aunt Li helps place the mysterious phone call.
• Koukou’s excited response to the caller provides the first clear indication that Gu Yanqing is involved.
• Qiao Wanqing and Huang Kewei discuss the case, his offer of assistance, and his invitation to dinner, strengthening their supportive friendship.
• Qiao Wanqing’s second uncle reveals that Gu Yanqing has visited him, and Gu Yanqing then appears directly before Qiao Wanqing, creating a suspenseful cliffhanger.

Chapter 78 Summary

• Plot and events: After nearly two months apart, Gu Yanqing reunites with Qiao Wanqing and is shocked by how much weight and vitality she has lost while dealing with her uncle’s assault and its aftermath. He tells her that he has arranged legal help and promises that she will receive justice. Qiao Wanqing explains that the attackers have not returned, but the incident has made her fearful and caused her to stop supplying most restaurants with vegetables. She continues a limited partnership with the farmhouse restaurant, despite financial losses and greenhouse growers undercutting her prices. Gu Yanqing takes her to the hotel for breakfast, where she finally feels some relief from the crisis.
• Character development: Gu Yanqing realizes that his feelings for Qiao Wanqing are genuine rather than temporary curiosity. He regrets being absent during her suffering and becomes determined to protect and support her. Qiao Wanqing, once resilient and confident, has become physically exhausted, emotionally worn down, and more cautious because of the threats against her family. However, she pragmatically accepts Gu Yanqing’s assistance instead of pretending she can handle everything alone.
• Character interactions: Gu Yanqing speaks with Qiao Wanqing’s family, arranges for their previous lawyer to handle the case, and reassures her that she only needs to cooperate legally. During breakfast, he shows concern for her health by offering to prepare food she is more accustomed to and placing an egg on her plate, signaling growing intimacy. Qiao Wanqing accepts his help and companionship, though she is too drained to consider the romantic implications.
• Themes: The chapter explores vulnerability, trust, and the importance of accepting support during hardship. It also highlights Gu Yanqing’s developing love and regret, Qiao Wanqing’s loss of security after being targeted by powerful people, and the practical pressures of business, where profit often outweighs loyalty.

Chapter Summary: “Teasing”

Plot points and events

During breakfast, Qiao Wanqing accidentally chokes on a thoroughly fried egg. Gu Yanqing immediately helps her by patting her back and giving her milk, but his intimate concern embarrasses her even more. After recovering, she jokes that his intimidating “kingly aura” caused her to choke. Their playful exchange becomes less formal and more familiar.
After breakfast, Gu Yanqing asks whether she still plans to visit her uncle. She declines, and they decide to return home to see Koukou. On the way, Qiao Wanqing learns that Yuan Yuan is staying with his parents because they have apparently reconciled after an accident interrupted their attempt to divorce. She wonders how this change might affect Yuan Yuan’s future and her own relationship with Gu Yanqing. Feeling relieved by the possibility that Gu Yanqing may no longer adopt Yuan Yuan, she falls asleep in the car. Gu Yanqing stops to cover her with a blanket, watches her with concern, and gently wakes her when they arrive home.

Character developments

Qiao Wanqing becomes more relaxed and openly teasing around Gu Yanqing, moving beyond her previous politeness and restraint. Her private thoughts reveal both anxiety about her situation and a selfish sense of relief at the possibility that Yuan Yuan will remain with his biological parents.
Gu Yanqing shows increasing tenderness and attentiveness toward her. He helps her when she chokes, enjoys her argumentative humor, notices her poor health, covers her while she sleeps, and worries about her comfort.

Significant themes

The chapter emphasizes growing intimacy through teasing, embarrassment, and everyday care. It also explores Qiao Wanqing’s conflicted feelings about fate and the original novel’s plot, as unexpected events begin changing the story’s supposed direction. Another theme is Gu Yanqing’s gradual shift from distant judgment to genuine concern.

Character interactions

Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing share playful banter over her choking and his intimidating presence, marking a warmer dynamic between them. They discuss Yuan Yuan’s family reconciliation, with Qiao Wanqing carefully hiding how much she already knows. Their final interaction is quiet and affectionate: Gu Yanqing protects her sleep and gently encourages her to rest properly once they reach home.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yanqing wakes Qiao Wanqing while they are in the car and playfully teases her by leaning close, creating an awkwardly intimate moment. Qiao Wanqing becomes flustered and relieved when Grandma Qiao interrupts.
• Grandma Qiao brings Koukou outside, and the child enthusiastically greets Gu Yanqing. Koukou affectionately bites and drools on his father’s face, a new habit he has developed.
• The family goes inside, where Gu Yanqing politely interacts with Grandma Qiao. It is revealed that he previously gave her his business card so she could contact him if Qiao Wanqing ever needed help.
• Koukou shows Gu Yanqing that he has learned the word “flower,” delighting his father and demonstrating his growing intelligence and development.
• Lawyer Gao investigates Qiao Wanqing’s legal trouble by reviewing the case and consulting the public security bureau. He assures Qiao Wanqing and her second uncle that the matter can be resolved easily.
• Qiao Wanqing feels relieved but also saddened that Gu Yanqing’s connections can solve in moments what she had struggled with for a long time. This gives her a deeper understanding of why Gu Siqiao, her son in the original book, pursued power at any cost.
• With the crisis under control, Qiao Wanqing plans to rest. Gu Yanqing leaves after lunch to return to his work, promising to visit again the next day.

Character Development

• Qiao Wanqing remains cautious and easily embarrassed around Gu Yanqing, but she is increasingly aware of his protection and influence. Her ordeal has exhausted her, and the resolution allows her to finally relax. She also gains insight into the motivations behind Gu Siqiao’s ambition.
• Gu Yanqing reveals a more playful and flirtatious side, deliberately teasing Qiao Wanqing rather than maintaining his usual dignified image. At the same time, he acts responsibly by arranging legal help, checking on her well-being, and showing genuine affection toward Koukou.
• Koukou demonstrates emotional attachment to Gu Yanqing and noticeable intellectual growth by recognizing and attempting to name a flower.
• Grandma Qiao shows trust in Gu Yanqing and quietly supports his involvement in Qiao Wanqing and Koukou’s lives.

Significant Themes

• Protection and support: Gu Yanqing’s intervention highlights the importance of having power, resources, and dependable allies.
• Romantic tension: The teasing encounter between Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing strengthens their mutual attraction while emphasizing her embarrassment and guardedness.
• Family affection: Koukou’s attachment to Gu Yanqing and their playful interaction reinforce the developing father-son bond.
• Power and social inequality: Qiao Wanqing recognizes how difficult problems can become simple for those with status and connections, helping her understand Gu Siqiao’s pursuit of power.
• Relief after hardship: The chapter shifts from anxiety and helplessness toward safety, rest, and emotional warmth.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing share a flirtatious, physically close exchange that is interrupted by Grandma Qiao.
• Gu Yanqing warmly reunites with Koukou, who shows affection through playful biting and laughter.
• Gu Yanqing earns Grandma Qiao’s respect through his politeness and previous efforts to ensure Qiao Wanqing’s safety.
• Gu Yanqing praises Koukou for learning the word “flower,” strengthening their bond.
• Gu Yanqing reassures Qiao Wanqing before leaving, telling her to rest and promising to return the following day.