Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yanqing reassures Qiao Wanqing that he will balance his career and their relationship, insisting he wants both his “empire and beauty.”
• Before leaving, he affectionately kisses Qiao Wanqing’s forehead and promises to pick her up the next morning.
• Qiao Wanqing prepares a workspace for Gu Yanqing inside the vegetarian restaurant by adding a sturdy wooden table near a window overlooking the mountains.
• The two exchange playful romantic teasing about promotions, becoming a CEO’s wife, and finding a tall, rich, handsome husband.
• Their flirtation is interrupted when Koukou accidentally urinates on the “first gift” Qiao Wanqing gave Gu Yanqing. Gu Yanqing playfully scolds and teases the child, but Koukou demands his mother’s attention and rejects his father’s attempted kisses.
• The family spends time together before Qiao Wanqing returns to preparing the restaurant for customers.
• The restaurant’s business grows rapidly: revenue and customers double on the second day, requiring Qiao Wanqing’s second uncle and aunt to help. Business remains strong on the third day, bringing nearly twenty thousand yuan in earnings over three days.
• On the fourth day, customers suddenly decline, disappointing Qiao Wanqing despite her preparation for the downturn.
• Gu Yanqing also has to return home due to family matters and may be away for a week, causing Qiao Wanqing to realize how deeply she misses him.
• During quieter periods, Qiao Wanqing holds a staff meeting to review the restaurant’s first few days and plan improvements.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing becomes more emotionally attached to Gu Yanqing and recognizes that she is truly falling in love with him. She begins wanting to share small details of daily life with him.
• She also demonstrates strong entrepreneurial ability, organizing the restaurant efficiently, responding to changing business conditions, and seeking ways to improve operations.
• Gu Yanqing shows that he can be both ambitious and affectionate. He remains committed to his work while openly pursuing Qiao Wanqing.
• His playful, fatherly relationship with Koukou becomes more apparent, especially when he teases the child and is humorously rejected.
• Koukou is portrayed as mischievous, affectionate, and strongly attached to his mother, while still enjoying his father’s attention.

Significant Themes

• Balancing love and ambition: Gu Yanqing refuses to choose between his career and romance, while Qiao Wanqing learns to accommodate both.
• The excitement and vulnerability of new love: Qiao Wanqing’s longing for Gu Yanqing and desire to share ordinary moments reveal her growing emotional dependence.
• Family intimacy and domestic humor: The interactions among Gu Yanqing, Qiao Wanqing, and Koukou create a warm, playful family atmosphere.
• Entrepreneurship and resilience: The restaurant’s rapid success followed by an abrupt decline emphasizes the unpredictability of business and the need for adaptability.
• Rural enterprise and community support: The restaurant’s success depends not only on good food and affordable prices but also on relatives and local people working together.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing flirt through teasing, with both displaying increasing romantic familiarity.
• Gu Yanqing expresses affection through forehead kisses and promises of continued attention.
• Gu Yanqing and Koukou engage in a playful power struggle: Gu Yanqing withholds a kiss, while Koukou retaliates by clinging to Qiao Wanqing and refusing his affection.
• Qiao Wanqing gently mocks Gu Yanqing after Koukou rejects him, strengthening the couple’s relaxed and intimate dynamic.
• Qiao Wanqing works cooperatively with her relatives and restaurant staff, holding a review meeting to improve the business.

Chapter 102 Summary

Key plot points and events

• Qiao Wanqing’s family affairs have been handed over to her second uncle and aunt, leaving her responsible mainly for mixing Koukou’s urine into the farm manure.
• On market day, she takes Koukou into town to shop. Because he is growing heavier, she jokes about having trouble carrying him. Koukou adorably suggests walking or crawling, proudly claiming that he crawls very fast.
• A promoter introduces Qiao Wanqing to the Nongtao Support Program, a county-backed e-commerce initiative designed to help local farmers sell agricultural products online through Taobao.
• Although the program might have interested her in the past, Qiao Wanqing declines to commit because running her vegetarian restaurant already consumes her time and energy. She nevertheless scans the program’s account and accepts its brochure.
• Qiao Wanqing unexpectedly meets Huang Kewei, who is on leave. They discuss her vegetarian restaurant, and he promises to visit. He jokingly calls her “Boss Qiao” and wishes her success.
• After parting with him, Qiao Wanqing reflects that Huang Kewei had likely been interested in her before, though she now understands that their circumstances would have made a relationship difficult.

Character developments

• Qiao Wanqing appears increasingly independent and business-minded, but also realistic about her limits. She recognizes that expanding into online commerce would require more time, money, and effort than she can currently spare.
• Her affectionate, playful relationship with Koukou is highlighted. He is becoming more independent, learning to walk, and showing a shy but amusing personality around strangers.
• Huang Kewei remains considerate and friendly. His internal thoughts reveal relief that he did not pursue Qiao Wanqing impulsively, since he would not have been able to maintain a long-distance relationship or ask her to abandon her ambitions.

Significant themes

• Rural modernization and entrepreneurship: The Nongtao program reflects efforts to use e-commerce and government support to develop local agriculture and reduce poverty.
• Practical ambition: Qiao Wanqing is open to opportunities but refuses to overextend herself, choosing to focus on making her restaurant successful.
• Independence and personal choices: Her conversation with Huang Kewei emphasizes that career goals and geography can shape romantic possibilities.
• Family affection and everyday warmth: Qiao Wanqing and Koukou’s playful exchange provides a gentle domestic contrast to the chapter’s business and relationship reflections.

Character interactions

• Qiao Wanqing and Koukou share a humorous, affectionate conversation about carrying, walking, and crawling.
• She politely but cautiously engages with the e-commerce promoter, ultimately accepting the information without making a commitment.
• Her reunion with Huang Kewei is cordial and slightly nostalgic. They exchange encouragement about her restaurant, while Qiao Wanqing privately reassesses his former interest in her.

Chapter Summary: “A Difficult Situation (Two-in-One)”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing reflects that, if she had not already fallen in love with Gu Yanqing, she might have been attracted to the refined and restrained Huang Kewei.
• She returns to her vegetarian restaurant with Koukou after shopping. Gu Yanqing has left Chen Feng and a car behind to help her travel.
• She discovers that Tan Yue, Tan Xin, and several companions are dining beneath the restaurant’s eaves. Tan Yue praises her decision to open a vegetarian restaurant near the Matchmaker Temple.
• Tan Xin is visibly uncomfortable upon learning that the restaurant belongs to Qiao Wanqing. She remains secretly attached to Gu Yanqing and resents that Qiao has become his girlfriend.
• Inside the restaurant, Qiao learns that Tan Xin and her companions have repeatedly criticized the food, complaining about the cooking oil and the richness or blandness of various dishes.
• Qiao recognizes that their complaints are deliberate rather than genuine, since the restaurant’s food has otherwise received excellent feedback.
• Instead of confronting them, Qiao responds graciously. She offers to waive the meal and orders the kitchen to prepare a plain hot pot broth with seasonings served separately, hoping to accommodate their tastes and prevent further nitpicking.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Demonstrates patience, practicality, and emotional maturity. Although she understands that Tan Xin is deliberately making trouble, she handles the situation diplomatically to protect her restaurant’s reputation.
• Gu Yanqing: Though absent from the chapter, his care for Qiao is evident through the car and driver he leaves behind to assist her. Qiao’s thoughts about him also confirm her affection.
• Tan Yue: Remains courteous and perceptive. He recognizes that Tan Xin has not moved on from Gu Yanqing and warns her that Gu is not someone easily controlled.
• Tan Xin: Reveals lingering jealousy and wounded pride. She has stopped openly pursuing Gu Yanqing because he publicly chose Qiao, but she remains unhappy that Qiao has him.
• Chef Liu and Sister-in-law Song: Show loyalty to Qiao and pride in the restaurant’s food. Chef Liu is frustrated by the unreasonable complaints, while Sister-in-law Song tries to report the issue carefully.

Significant Themes

• Grace under pressure: Qiao chooses generosity and tact over confrontation, even when she realizes the criticism is malicious.
• Jealousy and pride: Tan Xin’s behavior is driven less by genuine dissatisfaction with the food than by resentment toward Qiao’s relationship with Gu Yanqing.
• Love and emotional security: Qiao’s unconscious smile when thinking of Gu Yanqing contrasts with Tan Xin’s inability to accept losing him.
• Business and adaptability: Qiao protects her new restaurant by responding flexibly to customer complaints without compromising its reputation.
• Social class and status: Chef Liu suspects the wealthy guests are dismissing rural food, highlighting the tension between affluent outsiders and the local restaurant.

Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing and Tan Yue: Their interaction is polite and cordial. Tan Yue compliments the restaurant, while Qiao is quietly pleased by his approval.
• Tan Yue and Tan Xin: He questions her continued fixation on Gu Yanqing and reminds her that Gu cannot be “tamed” simply because she wants him.
• Tan Xin and Qiao Wanqing: They do not directly confront one another, but Tan Xin’s cold reaction and repeated complaints reveal her hostility.
• Qiao Wanqing, Chef Liu, and Sister-in-law Song: Qiao mediates between her staff and the difficult guests, reassuring them while instructing them to prepare alternative dishes.
• Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing: Their relationship is not shown directly, but his support and her thoughts about him establish their growing closeness.

Chapter Summary — Page 104

Key plot points and events

Tan Xin deliberately criticizes Qiao Wanqing’s mountain restaurant and demands a vegetarian hot pot, apparently intending to make the food seem inadequate. Qiao Wanqing refuses to argue and instead serves an elaborate meal with both mushroom and spicy broths, along with extra seasonings so Tan Xin can adjust the food herself. This “generosity” exposes Tan Xin’s pettiness and leaves her unable to complain without appearing unreasonable. Although Tan Xin barely eats, Tan Yue and the others eventually try the dishes and are surprised by how flavorful, balanced, and satisfying the supposedly ordinary food is.
Qiao Wanqing then offers Tan Xin Duck Blood Vermicelli Soup and, when she refuses, suggests vegetable juice. Tan Xin accepts, only to discover that Qiao Wanqing has included celery—an ingredient Tan Xin dislikes. Qiao Wanqing explains that the juice contains ingredients beneficial for beauty and skin, subtly turning Tan Xin’s complaint into an opportunity to praise her own complexion and lifestyle.

Character developments

Qiao Wanqing demonstrates composure, intelligence, and social tact. Rather than openly retaliating, she uses politeness and “generosity” to make Tan Xin’s hostility appear petty. Her vegetable juice is also a calculated, indirect counterattack. Tan Xin’s proud and difficult personality becomes increasingly evident, while her inability to respond without seeming rude puts her at a disadvantage. Tan Yue recognizes Tan Xin’s behavior but cannot control her; he respects Qiao Wanqing’s clever handling of the situation and begins to appreciate her even more. The other guests gradually abandon their assumptions about the restaurant after tasting the food.

Significant themes

• Grace versus pettiness: Qiao Wanqing shows that calm courtesy can be more effective than anger.
• Appearances and social dignity: Tan Xin prioritizes maintaining her image, even forcing herself to swallow the unpleasant juice rather than spit it out.
• Prejudice and discovery: The wealthy guests initially dismiss the mountain restaurant, but the food proves their assumptions wrong.
• Indirect competition and feminine confidence: Qiao Wanqing counters Tan Xin through subtle remarks about health, beauty, and her own excellent skin.

Character interactions

Tan Yue attempts to keep peace while privately enjoying Qiao Wanqing’s clever response. Tan Xin’s complaints create tension among the group, making everyone hesitant to eat until Tan Yue gives permission. Qiao Wanqing interacts with Tan Xin in an outwardly helpful but strategically pointed manner, offering food and drink while highlighting Tan Xin’s fussiness and indirectly emphasizing Qiao Wanqing’s own attractiveness and competence.

Chapter Summary

Plot and events

At Qiao Wanqing’s vegetarian restaurant, she tricks Miss Tan into drinking unpleasant vegetable juice, while Tan Yue recognizes the deception but chooses not to expose it. Miss Tan maintains her composure and pretends to enjoy the drink. Soon afterward, Koukou runs toward the entrance excitedly, calling for his father. Gu Yanqing arrives unexpectedly, and Koukou rushes to him but falls before reaching him. Gu Yanqing comforts their crying son and carries him into the restaurant.

Character developments

Qiao Wanqing shows her playful, mischievous side by teasing Miss Tan, but she also demonstrates restraint and maturity by refusing to let Gu Yanqing confront her over their earlier unpleasant interaction. Her confidence is reinforced when Gu Yanqing openly displays affection for her.
Gu Yanqing’s deep affection for both Qiao Wanqing and Koukou is evident: he worries over Koukou’s scraped hand, comforts him tenderly, and instinctively tries to protect Qiao Wanqing. He also makes his romantic commitment clear by ignoring Miss Tan and kissing Qiao Wanqing in front of her.
Miss Tan’s jealousy and class prejudice become more apparent. She cannot accept Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing’s relationship because she considers Qiao Wanqing socially and economically inferior. Tan Yue remains observant and cynical, immediately seeing through Qiao Wanqing’s tricks and commenting on the couple’s “Cinderella” romance.

Character interactions

Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing banter affectionately about whether he is having an “affair” with Miss Tan. Gu Yanqing jokingly offers to kneel on a keyboard as punishment, then kisses Qiao Wanqing, reassuring her of his loyalty. Meanwhile, Miss Tan watches their intimacy with growing resentment. Gu Yanqing’s reunion with Koukou highlights their strong father-son bond, as Koukou clings to him and asks him to blow on his scraped hand.

Significant themes

The chapter emphasizes romantic loyalty, family affection, and the contrast between genuine emotional bonds and superficial social status. Miss Tan’s belief that Qiao Wanqing is unworthy of Gu Yanqing is challenged by the warmth and happiness of their family. The scene also uses humor and public displays of affection to show Qiao Wanqing gaining confidence in her relationship and overcoming the discomfort caused by Gu Yanqing’s admirer.

Chapter 106 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yanqing comforts Koukou after he falls by blowing on his injury, imitating Qiao Wanqing’s usual method.
• He reveals that he has come to have lunch with Qiao Wanqing and Koukou. When Qiao asks whether he will greet Tan Xin, he firmly refuses.
• Gu Yanqing embraces Qiao Wanqing while holding Koukou, admitting that he has missed her during their separation. Qiao, embarrassed but secretly pleased, rests her head on his shoulder.
• Their romantic moment is interrupted when Koukou soils his diaper. Gu Yanqing takes responsibility for fetching hot water so that the child can be cleaned.
• Outside, Tan Xin confronts Gu Yanqing and asks why she is inferior to Qiao Wanqing. He tells her that she is not inferior in any way, but Qiao is the best person in his heart.
• Gu Yanqing recognizes that Tan Xin’s feelings are largely driven by obsession and resentment rather than genuine love. He warns her to respect herself and stop interfering with Qiao Wanqing, declaring that Qiao is his.
• Qiao Wanqing overhears the exchange unintentionally. After Gu Yanqing returns, he playfully asks whether she is satisfied with his answer.
• He then kisses her for the first time. The kiss begins awkwardly but becomes intense and prolonged, leaving Qiao overwhelmed and breathless.
• Koukou sees his parents kissing and interprets the scene as his father hurting his mother. He bursts into tears, hits Gu Yanqing, and declares, “Daddy bad!”
• Koukou rejects Gu Yanqing and seeks comfort from Qiao. Qiao jokingly joins him in condemning Gu Yanqing as a “big bad guy.”

Character Developments

• Gu Yanqing: Becomes more openly affectionate and decisive about his relationship with Qiao Wanqing. He protects her by directly confronting Tan Xin and clearly establishes his romantic commitment. He also begins taking a more active, domestic role as Koukou’s father.
• Qiao Wanqing: Shows that she reciprocates Gu Yanqing’s feelings, despite her shyness and embarrassment. She accepts his embrace and responds emotionally to his defense of her. Her playful alliance with Koukou highlights her growing comfort and intimacy within the family.
• Tan Xin: Her insecurity and resentment become evident. She struggles with being rejected by Gu Yanqing and with seeing Qiao Wanqing receive the affection she wanted. Although she briefly loses composure, she regains control and admits she is unwilling to accept the loss.
• Koukou: Remains affectionate and dependent on both parents, but his innocent misunderstanding of the kiss creates comic tension. He temporarily views Gu Yanqing as a threat to Qiao and sides protectively with his mother.

Significant Themes

• Romantic intimacy and gradual progression: Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing move from restrained affection—holding hands and kissing foreheads—to their first genuine kiss.
• Commitment and emotional boundaries: Gu Yanqing makes it clear that his loyalty lies with Qiao and warns Tan Xin not to interfere.
• Family and domestic affection: Caring for Koukou, sharing meals, and handling everyday childcare strengthen the sense of an emerging family unit.
• Humor amid romance: The romantic atmosphere is repeatedly disrupted by Koukou’s diaper and later by his dramatic misunderstanding of the kiss.
• Jealousy and self-worth: Tan Xin’s reaction reflects wounded pride and obsession, contrasting with Qiao and Gu Yanqing’s sincere, developing affection.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Koukou share a tender father-son moment, though it later turns comic when Koukou blames him for “attacking” Qiao.
• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing experience their first major physical intimacy, with Qiao gradually accepting his affection.
• Gu Yanqing and Tan Xin have a serious confrontation in which he rejects her romantically and defends Qiao.
• Qiao Wanqing and Koukou form a playful alliance against Gu Yanqing after the child’s emotional misunderstanding.

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yanqing accepts responsibility for Koukou’s mess and goes to wash and change their son.
• Qiao Wanqing teasingly prepares a full cup of carrot juice, knowing Gu Yanqing dislikes it. To her surprise, he drinks it all without complaint and even says the carrots taste good.
• Gu Yanqing playfully feeds Qiao Wanqing some carrot juice mouth-to-mouth. Their intimacy embarrasses her, while Koukou believes his father is bullying his mother and slaps Gu Yanqing.
• Qiao Wanqing escapes to cook, leaving Gu Yanqing to finish changing Koukou’s diaper.
• After Tan Yue and Tan Xin leave, Sister-in-law Song tells Qiao Wanqing they paid 400 yuan for the meal. Qiao returns most of the money, ultimately keeping only the actual meal cost after Tan Yue accepts her “discount.”
• Tan Yue reflects on how much Qiao Wanqing has matured since they first met.
• Gu Yanqing interrupts Qiao’s messaging with Tan Yue and asks her to receive a delivery. She discovers he has bought a truckload of playground equipment—such as a slide and swing—for Koukou, intending to install it outside their home.

Character Developments

• Gu Yanqing becomes increasingly affectionate, playful, and shameless with Qiao Wanqing. His willingness to drink carrot juice shows his adaptability and desire to indulge her, while his extravagant purchase reveals his generosity and somewhat excessive devotion to Koukou.
• Qiao Wanqing grows more confident in teasing and interacting romantically with Gu Yanqing. Though embarrassed by his intimacy, she recognizes that she enjoys their closeness. Her handling of the payment also demonstrates maturity, independence, and practical consideration.
• Koukou is portrayed as protective of Qiao Wanqing and openly attached to her, reacting indignantly whenever he thinks Gu Yanqing is mistreating her.
• Tan Yue acknowledges Qiao Wanqing’s emotional and personal growth and maintains a respectful relationship with her, despite the strained situation involving Tan Xin.

Themes

• Playful marital intimacy: Teasing, flirtation, and domestic mishaps strengthen the bond between Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing.
• Love overcoming personal dislikes: Gu Yanqing’s willingness to drink carrot juice—and even share it with Qiao—shows how affection softens his preferences and dignity.
• Family life and parenting: Diaper changing, food, and plans for a home playground emphasize the couple’s developing family dynamic.
• Emotional growth and closure: Tan Xin’s visit appears to mark the end of her connection with Gu Yanqing, while Tan Yue’s comments highlight Qiao Wanqing’s rapid maturation.
• Generosity versus practicality: Gu Yanqing expresses love through extravagant spending, whereas Qiao Wanqing prefers sensible, community-oriented solutions.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing’s carrot-juice exchange shifts from playful punishment to flirtatious intimacy, revealing their growing romantic comfort.
• Koukou interrupts their affection and defends Qiao, creating a humorous father-son conflict.
• Qiao and Tan Yue exchange polite messages about the meal and payment, showing mutual respect and Qiao’s desire to maintain clear boundaries.
• Gu Yanqing’s interruption and playground purchase contrast with Qiao’s practicality, setting up another lighthearted disagreement over how best to care for Koukou.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

• Gu Yanqing arranges to build a children’s playground beside the restaurant so Koukou can play with other children. He has already rented the land and ordered a play castle with slides, swings, tunnels, and other equipment.
• He also buys Qiao Wanqing a large number of gifts. Although she initially protests, she secretly enjoys showing them off on social media while promoting her vegetarian restaurant. Her single friends respond by teasing and attacking her for flaunting her romance.
• After the restaurant closes, Koukou falls asleep while eating because he has been excited about his father’s return. On the way home, Qiao Wanqing comforts him when he wakes up.
• Gu Yanqing suggests that Qiao Wanqing stay overnight at the restaurant to avoid the long commute. She refuses, claiming to be particular about beds, but admits internally that she is frightened of staying alone in the remote mountain location.
• Gu Yanqing jokingly offers to sleep on the floor as her “almost-boyfriend,” but Qiao Wanqing distrusts his motives and refuses. He is disappointed because he had hoped they might begin living together.
• A few days later, rain brings out the season’s first mushrooms. After Aunt Zhu gives them a large termite mushroom that Koukou enjoys, Qiao Wanqing decides to gather more herself.
• The next morning, she sends Gu Yanqing to buy cauliflower. He takes Koukou along, and Koukou quickly returns to his affectionate, dependent behavior toward his father despite their earlier conflict. When they reach a narrow wooden bridge, Koukou becomes frightened and asks Gu Yanqing to carry him. Gu Yanqing instead encourages him to cross alone.

Character developments

• Gu Yanqing continues to show his attentiveness and eagerness to become part of Qiao Wanqing and Koukou’s family life. His plans for the playground, gifts, and possible cohabitation reveal both generosity and a desire for greater domestic closeness.
• Qiao Wanqing remains cautious about intimacy. She appreciates Gu Yanqing’s care but is suspicious of his romantic intentions and refuses to rush into living together. At the same time, she is increasingly comfortable displaying their relationship publicly.
• Koukou is shown as deeply attached to both parents. He is easily spoiled, temperamental when awakened, and dependent on adults for reassurance, but he quickly forgives Gu Yanqing and resumes following him everywhere.

Significant themes

• Family formation and domestic intimacy: Gu Yanqing’s efforts to create a child-friendly home and share responsibilities suggest the gradual development of a family unit.
• Romantic teasing and mutual suspicion: Their exchanges balance affection with Qiao Wanqing’s wariness of Gu Yanqing’s schemes.
• Parenting and dependence: Koukou’s behavior highlights the challenges and tenderness of caring for a young child, while Gu Yanqing begins taking on a more active fatherly role.
• Public displays of affection: Qiao Wanqing’s social-media post shows that, despite her verbal resistance, she enjoys receiving and displaying Gu Yanqing’s affection.

Character interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing banter over the playground, gifts, overnight stays, and his suggestion that he sleep beside her.
• Qiao Wanqing comforts Koukou after he wakes up, demonstrating their close maternal bond.
• Gu Yanqing and Koukou spend time together shopping, with Koukou returning to his usual affectionate dependence on his father.
• The chapter ends with Gu Yanqing gently challenging Koukou to cross the small bridge by himself, suggesting a mix of playful teasing and encouragement toward independence.

Chapter Summary: “Mrs. Gu”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yanqing tries to persuade their timid son, Koukou, to walk across a bridge alone. Koukou is frightened by the water and begs to be carried, so Gu Yanqing picks him up.
• While gathering vegetables for breakfast, Gu Yanqing misunderstands Qiao Wanqing’s request for cauliflower and brings back flowering choy sum instead. The vegetables turn out tough and bitter after cooking.
• Qiao Wanqing jokingly pressures Gu Yanqing to eat the unpleasant “cauliflower.” Gu Yanqing secretly gives his portion to Koukou, who struggles to eat it before spitting it out because of the bitterness. The adults laugh, and Koukou laughs along without realizing he has been tricked.
• After breakfast, Qiao Wanqing prepares to climb the mountain to pick mushrooms. Because Koukou has become very clingy, she and Gu Yanqing secretly arrange their departure, leaving Grandma Qiao to watch him.
• Gu Yanqing waits outside with a basket, and Qiao Wanqing is struck by how handsome he is and by the realization that this seemingly unattainable man truly belongs to her.
• The couple head toward the mountain hand in hand. Gu Yanqing teases Qiao Wanqing with an intimate reference to their past night together, embarrassing her. She changes the subject by warning him about the difficulty of the climb and possible blisters.

Character Developments

• Gu Yanqing: Shows a playful, mischievous side as a father and husband. He is affectionate toward Koukou, though he also playfully takes advantage of the child’s innocence. His confident teasing reveals growing intimacy and ease with Qiao Wanqing.
• Qiao Wanqing: Acts as a caring mother and practical partner. She becomes increasingly aware of her happiness and good fortune in being married to Gu Yanqing, reflecting on how extraordinary her life feels after transmigrating into the novel.
• Koukou: Remains timid but adorable and increasingly independent. He wants to feed himself with a spoon, though his coordination is still developing. His trusting nature and eagerness to imitate his parents contribute to the chapter’s humor.
• Grandma Qiao: Helps care for Koukou so Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing can go mushroom-picking together.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Koukou share a warm, playful father-son relationship, with Gu Yanqing encouraging, carrying, and teasing him.
• Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing banter constantly, blending domestic humor with romantic and suggestive teasing.
• Both parents unintentionally—or in Gu Yanqing’s case, deliberately—make Koukou part of their joke about the bitter vegetables, while Koukou innocently joins in their laughter.
• Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing’s hand-holding and affectionate teasing demonstrate their growing closeness as a married couple.

Significant Themes

• Domestic happiness: Ordinary family activities, meals, childcare, and countryside work are portrayed as sources of warmth and joy.
• Playful marital intimacy: The couple’s teasing reflects comfort, attraction, and a deepening romantic bond.
• Family affection: The chapter emphasizes the loving but humorous relationship between parents and child.
• Transmigration and wish fulfillment: Qiao Wanqing reflects on how unlikely it once seemed that someone as exceptional as Gu Yanqing would love her, reinforcing the fantasy of her new life.
• Trust and innocence: Koukou’s unquestioning trust in his parents contrasts with the adults’ playful scheming and creates much of the chapter’s comedy.

Page 110 Summary

Plot and events

Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing go mushroom-picking in the mountains. She chooses safe termite mushrooms, while Gu Yanqing carries the basket and helps her over steep slopes. During their peaceful walk home, Qiao playfully makes him a flower wreath and calls him handsome. Gu Yanqing then tells her that his mother wants to meet both her and Koukou. Nervous about being judged because of her rural background, Qiao asks to delay the meeting, and Gu Yanqing agrees to wait for her. However, when they return home, they discover that Mrs. Gu has already arrived and is playing with Koukou.

Character developments

Qiao Wanqing remains playful and affectionate with Gu Yanqing, attempting to regain the upper hand after being teased by him. Despite their growing romantic relationship, she is still insecure about meeting his wealthy family and worries that Mrs. Gu will look down on her. Gu Yanqing is considerate and reassuring, promising not to pressure her. Mrs. Gu initially arrives with strong misconceptions about rural life and concern that Koukou is living in poor conditions, but her impressions change after seeing the clean, comfortable home and meeting her adorable grandson. Koukou has quickly become comfortable with Mrs. Gu and eagerly gives her a flower, while he jokingly scolds Qiao for leaving him behind.

Themes

The chapter highlights romance, teasing intimacy, and the gradual development of a family relationship. It also explores class differences and prejudice, contrasting Mrs. Gu’s wealthy upbringing with Qiao Wanqing’s rural life. Misunderstandings begin to soften as Mrs. Gu witnesses Qiao’s capable, nurturing environment firsthand. Family acceptance and the emotional importance of Koukou serve as central concerns.

Character interactions

Qiao and Gu Yanqing share flirtatious, affectionate moments while gathering mushrooms. He comforts her when she expresses anxiety about meeting his mother. Mrs. Gu interacts warmly with Koukou, who overcomes his initial shyness and offers her a flower. When Qiao and Gu Yanqing return, Mrs. Gu reproaches them for never taking the initiative to visit, while Gu Yanqing supports Qiao by holding her hand. Qiao reunites with Koukou, who pretends to be angry but eagerly buries himself in her arms, further melting Mrs. Gu’s heart.

Chapter Summary: “Grandma”

Plot and events

Mrs. Gu, Gu Yanqing’s mother, visits Qiao Wanqing’s rural home and meets Wanqing and her grandson, Koukou, for the first time. Gu Yanqing welcomes her with freshly picked termite mushrooms and jokes that although he has spent less time working, his company’s revenue has doubled. Mrs. Gu initially remains displeased, criticizing his decision to stay in the countryside and date instead of focusing entirely on work.
Koukou hides fearfully in Qiao Wanqing’s arms, but Mrs. Gu softens when she sees his distress and reaches out to him. With Wanqing’s encouragement, Koukou accepts Mrs. Gu and lets her hold him. Wanqing then prepares an elaborate meal, killing and cleaning a chicken and goose to properly entertain her future mother-in-law.

Character development

Qiao Wanqing demonstrates her practical, hardworking nature and her determination to fulfill her responsibilities despite worrying that Mrs. Gu may look down on her as a country girl. Her competence in preparing the meal surprises Mrs. Gu, who privately views her as unusually “fierce.”
Mrs. Gu’s initial prejudice and shock gradually give way to reluctant acceptance. Although she still believes Wanqing should learn wealthy social customs and move to X City, she recognizes that Gu Yanqing is serious about her. Gu Yanqing firmly defends Wanqing, making clear that he values her as a person rather than as someone who must fit elite social expectations.
Koukou, initially shy and upset, begins bonding with his grandmother. He remains embarrassed about speaking to her until Mrs. Gu tempts him with a toy robot, prompting him to call her “Grandma.”

Character interactions

Gu Yanqing teases and reassures his mother while simultaneously protecting Wanqing from her criticism. He urges Mrs. Gu to focus on the happiness of gaining both a daughter-in-law and grandson rather than searching for faults. Wanqing carefully encourages Koukou to accept Mrs. Gu, while Mrs. Gu uses affection and a toy to win him over. The family’s interactions reveal the beginnings of reconciliation between Mrs. Gu and Wanqing.

Significant themes

The chapter explores family acceptance, class differences, and the tension between tradition and personal choice. Mrs. Gu judges Wanqing through the lens of wealth and social status, while Gu Yanqing rejects the idea that his marriage should be based on appearances or etiquette. It also highlights maternal and familial bonding, as Mrs. Gu’s hostility weakens once she connects with Koukou, and suggests the gradual formation of a new family.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Mrs. Gu meets her grandson, Koukou, for the first time and immediately softens when he happily accepts a toy Robot and begins playing.
• Gu Yanqing explains that Koukou was an “accident” and that he and Qiao Wanqing only recently confirmed their relationship, avoiding a more complicated explanation.
• While Gu Yanqing talks with his mother, Qiao Wanqing prepares an elaborate meal to welcome her:
  • Termite Mushroom chicken soup
  • Poached chicken
  • Roast goose
  • Stir-fried giblets
  • Beef with snow peas
  • Stir-fried cauliflower
  • Dry-pot potato slices
  • Homemade flatbread and fresh vegetables
• Mrs. Gu initially remains unimpressed because she values family reputation and social standing more than domestic competence. She prefers a woman like Tan Xin, who would enhance the Gu family’s image.
• After tasting the food, however, Mrs. Gu is genuinely impressed. Qiao Wanqing’s cooking surpasses even that of the Gu family’s highly skilled chef.
• Mrs. Gu asks about Qiao Wanqing’s work and learns that she cares for Koukou, grows vegetables, and has recently opened a small restaurant.
• Mrs. Gu considers suggesting that Qiao Wanqing give up her work and follow Gu Yanqing to the city, but Gu Yanqing subtly prevents her from pressing the issue.
• Gu Yanqing negotiates a compromise: he and Qiao Wanqing will bring Koukou to visit his parents regularly. Mrs. Gu agrees, asking that Koukou stay with them for two days each month.
• The chapter ends humorously with Koukou making a mess while eating, emphasizing how thoroughly he has become the family’s beloved center of attention.

2. Character Developments

• Mrs. Gu: Initially judgmental and concerned with family image, she gradually becomes more accepting of Qiao Wanqing after enjoying her cooking and seeing her polite, capable nature. Her affection for Koukou quickly overcomes her anger.
• Gu Yanqing: Acts as a mediator between his mother and Qiao Wanqing. He protects Qiao Wanqing’s independence, gently blocks his mother from demanding that she abandon her restaurant, and uses Koukou to maintain family harmony.
• Qiao Wanqing: Demonstrates hospitality, competence, and emotional maturity through her cooking and courteous behavior. She remains calm despite Mrs. Gu’s reservations and begins to feel reassured when Mrs. Gu does not deliberately make things difficult.
• Koukou: Becomes the emotional focus of the family. His innocence and cuteness disarm Mrs. Gu, transforming him from an unexpected child into a cherished grandson.

3. Significant Themes

• Family acceptance: Mrs. Gu’s attitude shifts from suspicion to reluctant acceptance as she recognizes Qiao Wanqing’s value and sees Koukou’s charm.
• The power of food and domestic care: Qiao Wanqing’s cooking serves as both hospitality and a way of quietly proving herself, even though she is not seeking approval solely through household skills.
• Independence versus family expectations: Mrs. Gu expects Qiao Wanqing to conform by giving up her work and following Gu Yanqing, while Gu Yanqing supports her right to maintain her own restaurant and interests.
• Redemption and changed identities: Koukou, once associated with the “little villain” of the original story, is now adored by everyone, showing how circumstances and relationships have transformed the characters’ lives.
• Grandchildren as emotional bridges: Koukou helps ease tensions between the older generation and the younger couple, becoming the main reason Mrs. Gu is willing to compromise.

4. Character Interactions

• Mrs. Gu’s first interaction with Koukou immediately melts her anger and makes her eager to know him better.
• Gu Yanqing and Mrs. Gu exchange tense but affectionate remarks about Koukou’s late introduction and Qiao Wanqing’s role in his life.
• Qiao Wanqing courteously serves Mrs. Gu while Gu Yanqing openly supports and appreciates her efforts.
• Gu Yanqing quietly interrupts Mrs. Gu’s attempt to control Qiao Wanqing’s career, showing his loyalty to his partner.
• Mrs. Gu ultimately negotiates visitation rights centered on Koukou, while Qiao Wanqing realizes that being chosen by Gu Yanqing has already earned her some protection and acceptance within the family.

Chapter Summary

Key plot points and events

• Mrs. Gu spends time with Gu Yanqing, Qiao Wanqing, and their son Koukou. She becomes increasingly fond of Koukou’s messy but adorable eating habits.
• While feeding him, Mrs. Gu receives a half-chewed Termite Mushroom from Koukou, who proudly offers it to her as a gesture of affection.
• Mrs. Gu visits Qiao Wanqing’s vegetarian restaurant. A large tour group arrives, making the usually quiet restaurant lively and successful. She feels proud of Qiao Wanqing’s abilities.
• When Mrs. Gu leaves, Qiao Wanqing sends her home with vegetables, chickens, goose eggs, and Termite Mushroom oil for the Gu family.
• Mrs. Gu is reluctant to part with Koukou, and Qiao Wanqing promises to let him stay with her for several days in July.
• After Mrs. Gu departs, Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing discuss the strain of having a mother-in-law stay with them. Their conversation turns playful and romantic, ending in a passionate kiss.

Character developments

• Mrs. Gu grows deeply attached to Koukou and enjoys her role as a grandmother. Her favorable impression of Qiao Wanqing also strengthens as she sees the restaurant’s success and Qiao’s thoughtfulness.
• Qiao Wanqing demonstrates her care, hospitality, and competence by looking after Mrs. Gu, running the restaurant, and preparing generous gifts for her departure. She remains somewhat self-conscious around her mother-in-law but is relaxed and flirtatious with Gu Yanqing.
• Gu Yanqing recognizes and appreciates the effort Qiao Wanqing makes for his mother, explicitly thanking her. He also shows increasing confidence and intimacy in his relationship with Qiao.
• Koukou is portrayed as an affectionate, independent, and mischievous toddler who prefers feeding himself and expresses love innocently through sharing food.

Significant themes

• Family affection: Mrs. Gu’s attachment to Koukou highlights the warmth and emotional bond created by the new generation.
• Domestic relationships and boundaries: Qiao Wanqing’s discomfort while hosting her mother-in-law reflects the tension between familial closeness and the desire for personal space.
• Care expressed through food: Feeding Koukou, running the restaurant, and sending vegetables and homemade products home all serve as demonstrations of love and responsibility.
• Marital intimacy: The chapter contrasts family domesticity with the couple’s playful, increasingly passionate romance.

Character interactions

• Mrs. Gu and Koukou bond through feeding, with Koukou innocently offering her his saliva-covered mushroom.
• Qiao Wanqing and Mrs. Gu share a polite but gradually warmer daughter-in-law and mother-in-law relationship.
• Gu Yanqing notices Qiao’s efforts and thanks her, deepening their mutual appreciation.
• Qiao and Gu Yanqing tease each other over a “material reward,” leading to flirtation, physical affection, and a passionate kiss.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• After Gu Yanqing gives Qiao Wanqing an intense kiss, both become absorbed in the moment and temporarily forget about Koukou.
• They discover Koukou has wandered home and covered himself in mud. Qiao anxiously checks that he has not eaten any of it before cleaning him up.
• Gu Yanqing affectionately calls Koukou “Little Scamp,” and Koukou imitates him, creating a playful family moment.
• Qiao jokingly suggests that Gu Yanqing do housework. Chen Feng takes the request seriously, delivering both a dishwasher and a Deebot, apparently to prevent Gu Yanqing from being assigned more chores.
• That night, Qiao dreams erotically about Gu Yanqing. In the dream, he kisses and touches her intimately, though the encounter stops short of intercourse.
• She wakes embarrassed and flustered, especially because she has never consciously viewed Gu Yanqing in that way. Her shame keeps her from sleeping well.
• The next morning, Gu Yanqing openly remains at Qiao’s home. When he hugs her from behind in the kitchen, she abruptly pulls away, visibly shaken by memories of the dream.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Becomes increasingly aware of her physical attraction to Gu Yanqing, though she is embarrassed and unwilling to acknowledge it directly. Her maternal protectiveness is shown through her concern over Koukou’s safety and cleanliness.
• Gu Yanqing: Shows a more openly affectionate and desire-driven side with Qiao, while also engaging warmly with Koukou. His willingness to remain in their home suggests growing domestic intimacy.
• Koukou: Acts as an energetic, mischievous child who innocently interrupts or contrasts with the adults’ romantic tension. His imitation of Gu Yanqing strengthens their playful bond.
• Chen Feng: Comically overreacts to Qiao’s teasing request about housework by supplying appliances, implying he is highly protective of Gu Yanqing’s comfort or status.

Significant Themes

• Romantic and physical awakening: Qiao begins confronting feelings and desires she has previously avoided recognizing.
• Embarrassment versus intimacy: Her attraction to Gu Yanqing conflicts with her modesty and uncertainty, especially after the erotic dream.
• Domestic family life: Caring for Koukou, cleaning, cooking, and household appliances create the appearance of a developing family unit.
• Playfulness and affection: Humor—particularly through Koukou’s antics and Chen Feng’s reaction—balances the chapter’s sensual tension.
• Boundaries and readiness: Qiao’s reaction to Gu Yanqing’s advances suggests she is emotionally affected but still uncomfortable with openly acknowledging or pursuing deeper physical intimacy.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Qiao share a passionate kiss, followed by quiet closeness.
• Qiao cares for and reprimands Koukou while Gu Yanqing joins in his playful antics.
• Qiao teases Gu Yanqing about chores, indirectly prompting Chen Feng’s humorous delivery of cleaning appliances.
• In the dream, Qiao experiences an imagined intimate encounter with Gu Yanqing, revealing subconscious attraction.
• The next morning, Gu Yanqing affectionately embraces Qiao from behind, but she recoils because the gesture triggers embarrassment over her dream.

Chapter Summary: “Making Heart Signs” (2-in-1)

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing acts unusually nervous around Gu Yanqing after having an embarrassing romantic dream about him. She uses a spatula to keep him away and pretends she merely wants him to check whether Koukou is awake.
• Gu Yanqing notices her dark circles and teases her about missing him, but she becomes flustered and sends him away.
• Gu Yanqing finds Koukou awake and chewing on his own sock-covered foot. Koukou becomes upset when interrupted and even tries to offer his foot to his father, creating a humorous family moment.
• After more than a week of work, the miniature castle playground outside the vegetarian restaurant is completed. Koukou is delighted and repeatedly crawls through it, while Yuan Yuan later joins him to play.
• Gu Yanqing quickly loses patience with supervising the children and brings Yuan Yuan over so they can entertain each other. Because of the summer heat and concerns about plastic odors, Qiao Wanqing restricts their playtime to mornings and evenings.
• A customer arrives with an exceptionally adorable young daughter. Qiao Wanqing immediately becomes captivated by the girl.
• Gu Yanqing teases Qiao Wanqing about having a daughter together, suggesting that their combined genes would produce a beautiful child. His teasing reminds Qiao Wanqing of her dream, making her blush and prompting her to pinch him for his “dirty thoughts.”
• After Qiao Wanqing gives permission, the little girl joins Koukou and Yuan Yuan in the playground. Later, she returns upset because the two boys will not play with her, though she still insists that she wants to play with the handsome older boy and younger boy.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Becomes increasingly self-conscious and embarrassed about her romantic feelings for Gu Yanqing, especially after her dream. Her reactions reveal growing intimacy and attraction, though she still tries to hide them behind irritation and denial. She is also nurturing and attentive toward the children.
• Gu Yanqing: Continues to show playful affection and emotional attentiveness toward Qiao Wanqing. He notices her poor sleep, teases her about missing him, and enjoys provoking her shyness. As a father, he is affectionate toward Koukou but has limited patience for extended childcare.
• Koukou: Displays playful, energetic infant behavior. He enjoys the new playground, crawls through it enthusiastically, and becomes attached to chewing his own sock-covered foot.
• Yuan Yuan: Serves as Koukou’s playmate and helps keep him entertained.
• The little girl: Is cheerful and confident at first, but becomes hurt when the boys exclude her. Her continued desire to play with them shows her strong interest in their company.

Significant Themes

• Romantic embarrassment and growing intimacy: Qiao Wanqing’s dream and Gu Yanqing’s teasing expose the increasing romantic tension between them.
• Family and domestic happiness: The playground, children’s games, and affectionate interactions create a warm, family-like atmosphere.
• Playful teasing: Gu Yanqing uses humor to draw out Qiao Wanqing’s feelings, while her flustered responses strengthen their romantic dynamic.
• Childhood innocence and social interaction: The children’s excitement, jealousy, and desire to play provide lighthearted comedy and contrast with the adults’ more complicated emotions.
• Care and responsibility: Qiao Wanqing’s concern about the heat and plastic fumes demonstrates her practical protectiveness toward the children.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing exchange teasing, flirtatious banter, with Qiao Wanqing repeatedly trying to resist his advances.
• Gu Yanqing shares a comic father-son moment with Koukou when the baby insists on chewing and sharing his own foot.
• Koukou and Yuan Yuan play together in the new castle, while Gu Yanqing supervises them only briefly before tiring of the task.
• The little girl attempts to join the boys’ play but is rejected, leading to an emotional exchange with her mother and highlighting her admiration for the two boys.

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• At a restaurant gathering, little Shen Yunxu complains that Yuan Yuan and Koukou refuse to play with her. Qiao Wanqing takes Yunxu outside to help her join the boys.
• Qiao Wanqing realizes that Yunxu is likely the novel’s female protagonist. This means Yuan Yuan is unknowingly meeting his future wife, while Koukou is the future villain who will eventually develop feelings for her.
• Yuan Yuan openly dislikes Yunxu because her princess dress makes her slow and unable to participate easily in the children’s games. When she cries and expects the boys to wait for her, he finds her spoiled and troublesome.
• Qiao Wanqing reprimands Yuan Yuan for being ungentlemanly and encourages him to be more patient with Yunxu. The children eventually resume playing together, though Qiao Wanqing decides not to interfere further in their future relationship.
• Later, a woman named Sun Lanzhi applies for the restaurant’s part-time chef position. She is a housewife who has moved to Town to support her second-grade child’s education and currently works washing vegetables in a school cafeteria.
• Qiao Wanqing questions whether Sun Lanzhi has professional culinary qualifications or sufficient experience, since the restaurant serves urban customers and needs more than ordinary home cooking.

Character Development

• Qiao Wanqing becomes increasingly aware of how her present actions are altering the original novel’s storyline. She recognizes the absurdity of the future romantic connections forming between the children but chooses to let fate decide rather than obsess over the book’s plot.
• She acts as a mediator and caretaker, defending Yuan Yuan while also teaching him to treat Yunxu kindly.
• Yuan Yuan shows a strong, honest personality. He is protective and affectionate toward Koukou but impatient with Yunxu, whom he considers overly delicate and demanding. His present dislike humorously contrasts with his presumed future pursuit of her.
• Koukou remains innocent and affectionate. He imitates Yuan Yuan’s words but readily seeks his brother’s help and cooperates happily during play.
• Shen Yunxu is introduced as a pretty, appearance-conscious, somewhat spoiled child who cries when things do not go her way. Her personality reflects the adult female lead’s future obsession with attractive people.
• Sun Lanzhi is presented as a practical mother seeking work and stability while caring for her child largely on her own.

Significant Themes

• Fate versus altered destiny: Qiao Wanqing recognizes characters from the original novel but questions whether their future relationships will unfold the same way after transmigration.
• Childhood innocence and future romance: The children’s awkward first meeting creates irony because they may later become romantic partners or rivals, though none of them understand the significance of their encounter.
• Appearance and superficial judgment: Yunxu’s fascination with beauty is established early, while the adults and children react to one another based partly on appearance and behavior.
• Family and caregiving: Qiao Wanqing takes on a nurturing, guiding role toward the children, while Sun Lanzhi’s situation highlights the sacrifices mothers make for their children.
• Work and competence: The chef interview emphasizes that professional cooking requires more than domestic experience, setting up the restaurant’s need for qualified staff.

Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing kindly responds to Yunxu’s complaints and escorts her to the boys.
• Yuan Yuan rejects Yunxu bluntly, while Koukou imitates him without fully understanding the situation.
• Qiao Wanqing corrects Yuan Yuan and encourages him to be considerate toward girls.
• Yuan Yuan and Koukou play naturally together, contrasting with their strained interaction with Yunxu.
• Qiao Wanqing interviews Sun Lanzhi and establishes the restaurant’s professional expectations.

Chapter Summary

Plot and events

With business slowing because of the hot weather, Qiao Wanqing interviews Sun Lanzhi for a cooking position. Sun explains that she previously served as the head cook for a traveling banquet crew and possesses the necessary health certificates, though she lacks a chef’s certificate. Since the restaurant specializes in vegetarian food, Gu Yanqing asks her to prepare several dishes in the hotel kitchen so they can judge her actual cooking ability rather than rely on her claims.
While waiting, Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing discuss their upcoming trip to X City on July 5, when she will formally meet his parents. Qiao worries about bringing an appropriate gift and initially considers buying something in C City. Gu Yanqing suggests bringing local specialties instead, such as wild lingzhi and Gold Thread Orchid. Though Qiao worries these gifts may seem too rustic or inexpensive, Gu Yanqing reassures her that his parents will appreciate them and tells her to trust him.
Yuan Yuan and Koukou then return from buying toys with the hotel receptionist, Xiao Ru. Koukou enthusiastically carries an oversized toy gun, falls while running, and briefly scrapes his hand. Qiao immediately checks and comforts him, while Gu Yanqing praises him, takes the gun, and blows on Koukou’s hand at the child’s request. Xiao Ru apologizes for not watching the children closely, but Gu Yanqing tells her it was not her fault and pays for the toys. Qiao notices Xiao Ru’s admiration for him and teasingly calls Gu Yanqing charming in a jealous tone.

Character developments

• Qiao Wanqing shows herself to be careful and responsible, particularly in choosing a capable employee and preparing for her first formal meeting with Gu Yanqing’s parents. She is also affectionate and protective toward Koukou, while revealing a playful, mildly jealous side when Xiao Ru reacts to Gu Yanqing’s gentleness.
• Gu Yanqing demonstrates practical judgment by testing Sun Lanzhi’s cooking directly. He is confident about his parents’ preferences and considerate of Qiao’s worries. His warm behavior with Koukou contrasts with his usual aloofness, highlighting his tenderness as a father and partner.
• Sun Lanzhi is presented as experienced and self-assured, willing to adapt her banquet-cooking background to the restaurant’s vegetarian menu.
• Koukou continues to display energetic, childlike enthusiasm. Even after falling, he quickly recovers and remains focused on showing off his toy gun.
• Xiao Ru becomes briefly flustered by Gu Yanqing’s rare smile and gentle demeanor.

Significant themes

• Family and domestic intimacy: Qiao and Gu Yanqing’s discussion of meeting his parents reflects the relationship becoming more serious and family-oriented.
• Care and affection: The adults’ concern for Koukou emphasizes parental tenderness and the close bond forming within the family.
• Practicality versus appearances: Qiao worries that local agricultural specialties may seem too humble, while Gu Yanqing values sincerity and personal meaning over status.
• Romantic playfulness and jealousy: Qiao’s teasing comment about Gu Yanqing’s charm adds lighthearted romantic tension and shows their growing comfort with one another.
• Competence and authenticity: Sun Lanzhi’s trial cooking reinforces the idea that real ability matters more than credentials or confident words.

Character interactions

Qiao and Gu Yanqing work together in evaluating Sun Lanzhi and openly discuss their future family meeting. Their physical closeness and teasing show increasing intimacy. Qiao and Gu Yanqing jointly comfort Koukou after his fall, with Koukou seeking reassurance from both of them. Gu Yanqing’s gentle exchange with Xiao Ru prompts Qiao’s deliberately jealous remark, adding humor and emphasizing their romantic connection.

Chapter 118 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing hires Sun Lanzhi as the new chef. Sun’s home-style cooking impresses Qiao, and Gu Yanqing confirms that it meets his higher standards.
• They agree on a fair salary, slightly below Chef Liu’s but above Sister-in-law Song’s, leaving Sun Lanzhi satisfied.
• Before traveling to C City, Qiao arranges household and business matters. She leaves enough of Koukou’s diluted “pee” fertilizer to maintain the vegetable garden, though expanding production remains difficult because the supply is limited.
• Demand for the family’s expensive vegetables continues to rise, especially from farmstay customers who have discovered that the farmstay’s produce is the same as that used by the vegetarian restaurant.
• Qiao purchases dried golden thread lotus, lingzhi, gastrodia, and local honey—worth about 5,000 yuan—as gifts for Gu Yanqing’s parents. She worries about the expense and about making a good impression.
• Gu reassures her that the gifts are sufficient and that his parents will not deliberately make things difficult. He suggests that Koukou’s charm will also help.
• Before leaving, Koukou says goodbye to Grandma Qiao and promises to bring her delicious food and new clothes. The family departs for C City the next morning.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing shows increasing competence in managing both her businesses and family responsibilities. She remains financially cautious and anxious about meeting Gu Yanqing’s family, but she is learning to trust him.
• Gu Yanqing continues to support and reassure Qiao, teasing her affectionately while helping her handle practical and emotional concerns.
• Sun Lanzhi gains a new position as chef, establishing her role within Qiao’s growing business network.
• Koukou displays his charm and developing speech. Though he struggles with pronunciation and stuttering, he tries to comfort Grandma Qiao, promises gifts, and performs a heart gesture at Yuan Yuan’s instruction.
• Yuan Yuan acts protectively and proudly toward Koukou, teaching him how to say goodbye and make a heart.

Significant Themes

• Family and affection: The chapter emphasizes the warmth between generations, particularly Grandma Qiao’s attachment to Koukou.
• Trust and reassurance in marriage: Qiao’s worries about money and Gu’s parents are eased by Gu Yanqing’s steady support.
• Growth and responsibility: Qiao continues expanding her businesses while carefully balancing limited resources and financial obligations.
• Home and belonging: Sun Lanzhi’s cooking evokes the comfort of home, while the family’s departure highlights both their closeness and the sadness of temporary separation.
• Childhood innocence: Koukou’s imperfect words and affectionate gestures create much of the chapter’s tenderness and humor.

Character Interactions

• Qiao evaluates Sun Lanzhi’s cooking, while Gu Yanqing quietly gives his approval.
• Gu playfully warns Qiao to “keep a close watch” on him because he is admired by others, prompting her irritated but affectionate response.
• Gu comforts Qiao about the gifts and his parents, holding her on his lap and reassuring her that she has nothing to fear.
• Qiao and Grandma Qiao share a tender farewell, with Koukou attempting to express that he will miss her.
• Yuan Yuan teaches Koukou to make a heart for Grandma Qiao, ending the chapter with the family laughing together before their journey.

Chapter Summary: A Home in C City

Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing travels with Gu Yanqing, Yuan Yuan, and Koukou from their home to C City, a journey of about two hours.
• During the trip, Koukou rummages through Qiao Wanqing’s bag. She firmly stops him, teaching him that some things are off-limits even though he is young.
• When Koukou becomes upset, Gu Yanqing distracts him with a handbell, while Yuan Yuan entertains him with a simple “magic trick.”
• While reorganizing her bag, Qiao Wanqing finds an Agricultural Taobao promotional brochure. Gu Yanqing examines it and explains that the program offers strong policy support, government connections, and help with shipping.
• Qiao recalls that she once considered selling dried vegetables online when she struggled to find buyers for her produce, but she lacked the time, money, and expertise to start an online shop.
• Gu Yanqing encourages her to consider becoming an entrepreneur, promising to support her even if the venture fails. Qiao begins imagining an online store selling dried fruits and vegetables, honey, mushrooms, Gold Thread Orchid, and other local products, potentially promoted through her restaurant.
• She ultimately hesitates, recognizing the work involved in processing goods, building customer trust, and managing the business. Gu Yanqing points out that, as the owner, she could focus on planning and coordination rather than handling every task herself.
• Gu Yanqing’s real motivation is revealed: the Agricultural Taobao program would give Qiao and Koukou opportunities to visit C City, experience more of the outside world, and broaden their lives beyond the village.

Character Development

• Qiao Wanqing is shown as careful, responsible, and disciplined in raising Koukou. She is also revealed to possess genuine entrepreneurial potential, though she is wary of overworking herself.
• Koukou is curious and persistent but responds to boundaries and distraction. His behavior reflects his growing understanding of rules.
• Yuan Yuan demonstrates patience and affection toward Koukou by helping calm him with an imaginative trick.
• Gu Yanqing appears supportive and attentive. He encourages Qiao’s ambitions while subtly creating opportunities for her and Koukou to experience city life.

Themes

• Responsible parenting: Qiao teaches Koukou boundaries instead of indulging him, showing that discipline and affection can coexist.
• Entrepreneurship and self-realization: The chapter explores Qiao’s possible transition from local farming into a broader business venture.
• Support within relationships: Gu Yanqing supports Qiao not merely financially but by encouraging her to pursue opportunities and expand her horizons.
• Rural development and modern commerce: Agricultural Taobao represents the connection between traditional farming and e-commerce, especially through improved logistics and government support.
• Home and broader horizons: Although the characters are settled in the countryside, Gu Yanqing believes they should still see more of the world, particularly C City.

Character Interactions

• Qiao gently praises Yuan Yuan and Koukou, reinforcing their bond.
• She firmly corrects Koukou when he tries to take something from her bag.
• Gu Yanqing and Yuan Yuan cooperate to distract and comfort Koukou.
• Gu Yanqing and Qiao discuss the Agricultural Taobao opportunity, with Gu offering practical advice and emotional reassurance.
• Their conversation reveals a close, trusting relationship: Qiao worries about exhaustion, while Gu emphasizes that she does not have to manage everything alone.

Key plot points and events

• Gu Yanqing’s family plans to move to the city, where Qiao Wanqing could study and pursue an online store with his support, rather than carry the full burden of her rural businesses.
• Before their afternoon flight, the family stops at Gu Yanqing’s spacious apartment in C City. Gifts of Gold Thread Orchid, Reishi, and Gastrodia are packed in ornate boxes for Qiao Wanqing’s parents.
• Qiao Wanqing tours the apartment, including its landscaped balcony and the small bedroom prepared for Yuan Yuan. Gu Yanqing jokingly asks whether she approves of her future home and promises he would buy another if she did not.
• Koukou delights in the balcony view and mistakes an airplane for a bird, then a chicken—and finally decides it must be tasty. Yuan Yuan tries to explain what airplanes are.
• The family leaves for the airport, flies to X City, and is met by the Gu family’s car. Qiao Wanqing grows nervous about meeting her future in-laws.

Character developments and interactions

• Gu Yanqing shows practical commitment to Qiao Wanqing’s future: he offers help with her work and speaks of the apartment and its comforts as hers too. He is affectionate and playful, while also reassuring her about Koukou’s safety.
• Qiao Wanqing is impressed by the apartment and touched by Gu Yanqing’s generosity, though she hides some of her feelings behind teasing. Her caution around the balcony reflects her protectiveness of Koukou; her confidence gives way to anxiety as they approach the family meeting.
• Koukou brings comic warmth to the visit with his excitement, vivid misunderstandings, and attachment to the balcony. Yuan Yuan acts as his patient, if slightly exasperated, explainer.

Significant themes

• The chapter contrasts Qiao Wanqing’s former hardship with the comfort and opportunities Gu Yanqing can offer, while raising the prospect that she may build a new life in the city.
• Family, belonging, and security are central: Gu Yanqing treats the home as shared, the children bond through play, and Qiao Wanqing prepares to meet his parents.
• Humor and affection soften the transition, even as Qiao Wanqing’s nerves signal that acceptance into Gu Yanqing’s family remains an important uncertainty.