Chapter Summaries

Chapter Summary

Plot Points and Events

• Lort, Qiao Wanqing, Gu Yanqing, Koukou, and Lu Yunfei visit the Matchmaker Temple on a brutally hot midsummer afternoon.
• While walking from the parking area, Lort gives Qiao Wanqing his folding fan so she can cool Koukou. Koukou eventually insists on using it himself.
• They worship Yue Lao and then throw red wish ribbons onto the matchmaking tree. Lort and Lu Yunfei succeed easily, but Qiao Wanqing repeatedly fails.
• While Gu Yanqing is away answering a work call, Lort helps by throwing Qiao Wanqing’s ribbon, which lands at the highest point on the tree. Gu Yanqing returns just in time to see this, apparently adding the incident to his growing list of grievances toward Lort.
• The group later buys ice cream. Gu Yanqing chooses iced water because he claims not to like sweets, while everyone else gets a cone.
• Gu Yanqing playfully eats from Qiao Wanqing’s cone, declaring that he likes sweets when he is with her. He eventually shares and finishes the cone with her, openly flirting despite Lu Yunfei and Lort’s presence.
• Meanwhile, the adults become distracted by their affection, and Koukou covers his face, hands, chin, and clothes in melted ice cream.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing is caring and attentive toward Koukou, wiping his sweat, sharing the fan, and allowing him to enjoy his ice cream despite the mess.
• Gu Yanqing displays a more openly affectionate and teasing side. His jealousy toward Lort is subtly emphasized when Lort helps Qiao Wanqing with her ribbon, while his romantic behavior toward Qiao becomes increasingly shameless.
• Lort continues to act considerate and helpful, offering Qiao Wanqing his fan and assisting her with the wish ribbon. His friendly closeness with her unintentionally provokes Gu Yanqing.
• Lu Yunfei serves as the amused but exasperated observer of Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing’s public displays of affection, joking about being single and avoiding their flirtation.
• Koukou behaves like an energetic, messy child, enjoying the fan and ice cream without understanding the adults’ romantic tension.

Significant Themes

• Romantic affection and jealousy: Gu Yanqing’s possessiveness appears through his silent reaction to Lort’s help, contrasted with his overt intimacy with Qiao Wanqing.
• Family warmth and domestic intimacy: The outing highlights Qiao and Gu’s comfortable, affectionate relationship and their shared care for Koukou.
• Humor through contrast: The temple’s matchmaking setting is paired with playful jealousy, public flirting, and Koukou’s chaotic ice-cream mess.
• Enjoying ordinary moments: Though Qiao Wanqing initially does not need the temple rituals, she finds pleasure in the experience, suggesting growing enjoyment of shared memories and simple outings.

Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing and Koukou share a tender mother-child moment as she cools and cares for him.
• Lort’s kindness toward Qiao creates an understated rivalry with Gu Yanqing.
• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing flirt openly through the shared ice cream, embarrassing Qiao and irritating/amusing Lu Yunfei.
• Lu Yunfei and Lort comment on the couple’s affection, while Koukou remains oblivious and turns the outing into a comedic mess.

Key plot points and events

• Koukou makes a messy spectacle of eating his mango ice cream, then insists on sharing it with his parents and Lu Yunfei, whom he calls “Cousin Piggy.”
• After visiting the Matchmaker Temple, the group has dinner at Qiao Wanqing’s vegetarian restaurant. They enjoy her popular layered vegetable aspic, a chilled dish made with blanched vegetables and gelatin.
• Lu Yunfei regrets having planned such a short visit and jokingly claims she could stay to eat. Gu Yanqing teases her about a past attempt to lose weight by eating vegetables.
• When Lu Yunfei asks about evening activities, Qiao Wanqing suggests catching cicada nymphs. She explains that they are plentiful in summer and tasty when fried.
• Excited by the chance to try a rural activity, Lu Yunfei agrees. To avoid the darker, unfamiliar woods near the temple, Qiao Wanqing plans to take the group to a nearby mountain and buys gloves and flashlights.
• Qiao Wanqing intends for Gu Yanqing to stay home with Koukou, recalling that their previous cicada-catching trip was mostly an excuse for Gu Yanqing to flirt with her.

Character developments and interactions

• Koukou is affectionate and determined to share his food, though his messy habits leave the adults speechless. His playful mispronunciation prompts the joke about Lu Yunfei being a “piggy.”
• Qiao Wanqing is comfortable with country life and increasingly adventurous about food: she overcame her initial reluctance to eat cicada nymphs and now enjoys catching them.
• Lu Yunfei is enthusiastic about local experiences and reluctant to leave, while Gu Yanqing’s teasing exposes her lack of success with dieting.
• Gu Yanqing continues to tease Lu Yunfei and, in Qiao Wanqing’s recollection, has a mischievous, flirtatious side when they are alone together.

Significant themes

• Family warmth and playful teasing: The ice-cream sharing and dinner conversation show the group’s easy familiarity.
• Rural life and local food: The chapter celebrates seasonal ingredients, country activities, and Qiao Wanqing’s restaurant cooking.
• Romantic humor: Qiao Wanqing’s memory of Gu Yanqing turning a practical outing into a flirtatious one adds a light romantic thread.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• President Gu insists on joining Qiao Wanqing, Lu Yunfei, and Lort to catch cicada nymphs at night, mainly because he distrusts Lort’s possible interest in his wife.
• Qiao Wanqing leaves Koukou with Grandma Qiao, allowing the adults to sneak out together.
• In the forest, Qiao Wanqing teaches everyone how to find and catch cicada nymphs on tree trunks. Lu Yunfei is initially frightened, mistaking the insects for ordinary flying bugs, but becomes braver after catching one.
• Gu Yanqing injures his palm on a sharp branch while searching for cicadas. Although he insists the injury is minor, the deep cut bleeds heavily.
• Lort offers his handkerchief, while Qiao Wanqing finds medicinal grass, chews it, and applies it to Gu Yanqing’s wound to stop the bleeding.
• Because of Gu Yanqing’s injury, the group ends the outing after collecting nearly a pound of cicada nymphs—enough for a meal.
• Back home, Qiao Wanqing soaks the cicadas and disinfects Gu Yanqing’s hand. Koukou, initially angry that his parents left without him, quickly forgives them when he sees his father hurt. He blows on the wound to comfort him and watches anxiously as his mother treats it.

Character Development

• Gu Yanqing displays jealousy and protectiveness toward Qiao Wanqing, insisting on accompanying her because of his suspicion of Lort. His concern for her also leads him to tolerate the uncomfortable outing.
• Qiao Wanqing is practical, capable, and caring. She confidently catches the cicadas, knows how to treat minor injuries with medicinal plants, and becomes visibly distressed over Gu Yanqing’s wound despite denying that she is worried.
• Lu Yunfei begins the outing nervous and frightened by the cicada nymphs but gains confidence after catching one herself. She also shows concern when Gu Yanqing is injured.
• Lort remains calm and curious about the insects, even commenting that they look tasty. He helps by offering a clean handkerchief when Gu Yanqing is hurt.
• Koukou demonstrates emotional sensitivity and intelligence. His anger disappears when he sees his father injured, and he comforts Gu Yanqing by blowing on his hand. His decision to use a stool so he can see the treatment highlights his resourcefulness.

Significant Themes

• Family affection and care: The injury brings out the family’s concern, especially Qiao Wanqing’s devotion and Koukou’s tender response.
• Romantic jealousy and possessiveness: Gu Yanqing’s insistence on joining the outing reflects his insecurity about Lort’s relationship with Qiao Wanqing.
• Growing courage: Lu Yunfei overcomes her fear of the cicadas through encouragement and direct experience.
• Domestic warmth and playful romance: The outing and wound treatment combine humor, marital teasing, and affectionate physical gestures.
• Cleverness and inherited traits: Lu Yunfei is impressed by Koukou’s unusually sharp observation and practical thinking.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing maintain a teasing but affectionate relationship; although she denies worrying about him, her actions clearly reveal her concern.
• Lu Yunfei silently resents Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing’s public displays of affection but remains too intimidated to complain openly.
• Qiao Wanqing mentors Lu Yunfei in catching cicadas, helping her move from fear to confidence.
• Lort cooperates with the group and assists Gu Yanqing, while Gu Yanqing’s jealousy creates an underlying tension between them.
• Koukou’s interaction with his injured father reinforces the close bond between them and highlights the family’s warm, protective dynamic.

Chapter Summary: “Sweet-Smelling Little Feet”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yanqing’s cicada-related hand injury is cleaned, medicated, and bandaged by Qiao Wanqing at home. Koukou shows concern for his father, trying to comfort him and staying beside him afterward.
• Since Lort and Lu Yunfei may not return the next day, Qiao Wanqing decides to cook the cicada nymphs as a late-night snack.
• While preparing the dish, Qiao Wanqing carefully washes away the dirt and sand from the nymphs, adds chilies, Sichuan peppercorns, scallions, and avoids using garlic because she has noticed that Lort does not eat it.
• Lort praises Qiao Wanqing’s beauty, cooking, and thoughtfulness, joking that he would pursue her if she did not already have a boyfriend. Gu Yanqing becomes visibly jealous and internally furious, though he remains outwardly composed.
• Lort quickly clarifies that he has no improper intentions, and Grandma Qiao and Lort leave the cramped kitchen, easing the awkward tension.
• Koukou wants to play with and possibly eat the uncooked cicada nymphs. Qiao Wanqing stops him by claiming they can bite, while Gu Yanqing reinforces the warning by saying a cicada badly hurt his hand.
• Koukou gives up on touching the nymphs and instead plays with a watermelon. Qiao Wanqing then quietly asks Gu Yanqing whether he is angry, and his cold response confirms that he is jealous and displeased.

Character Developments

• Gu Yanqing: Reveals a protective and affectionate side as a father, comforting Koukou and using his injury to keep the child safe. At the same time, his jealousy toward Lort becomes obvious, showing how strongly he cares about Qiao Wanqing.
• Qiao Wanqing: Demonstrates medical competence, domestic skill, attentiveness, and consideration by caring for Gu Yanqing, preparing the food, and remembering Lort’s dietary preference. She also acts protectively toward Koukou.
• Koukou: Shows unexpected tenderness and obedience when Gu Yanqing is hurt. Although playful and curious, he listens when warned that the cicadas are dangerous.
• Lort: Develops admiration for Qiao Wanqing and openly compliments her, but quickly recognizes the awkwardness his remark causes and reassures Gu Yanqing that he has no serious romantic intentions.
• Grandma Qiao: Helps with the cooking by preparing the fire and tactfully leaves once the kitchen becomes crowded and uncomfortable.

Significant Themes

• Family affection: Koukou’s concern for his injured father reinforces the warmth and closeness within the family.
• Parenting and protection: Both adults cooperate to prevent Koukou from touching or eating unsafe cicada nymphs.
• Jealousy and romantic tension: Lort’s praise of Qiao Wanqing exposes Gu Yanqing’s possessiveness and hints at deeper romantic feelings.
• Thoughtfulness and observation: Qiao Wanqing’s attention to Lort’s dislike of garlic highlights her considerate nature.
• Domestic warmth: Cooking, caring for an injury, and family interactions create a cozy, intimate atmosphere despite moments of awkwardness.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Koukou share a tender father-son moment, with Koukou trying to comfort his injured father.
• Qiao Wanqing cares for Gu Yanqing and later notices his jealousy, directly asking whether he is angry.
• Lort compliments Qiao Wanqing, provoking Gu Yanqing’s silent jealousy before apologizing and clarifying his intentions.
• Qiao Wanqing and Koukou interact over the cicada nymphs, with her gently preventing him from playing with or eating them.
• Gu Yanqing supports Qiao Wanqing’s warning by using his injured hand as an example, showing them working together as parents.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing reassures Gu Yanqing after his confrontation with Lort. She explains that she and Lort will have no further contact after that night and kisses Gu to calm him.
• Qiao cooks fried and spicy cicada nymphs. Lort and Koukou enjoy them immediately, while Lu Yunfei remains reluctant because she remembers seeing the insects alive.
• Lort encourages Lu Yunfei to try one, but Gu Yanqing stops her when she hesitates. Lu Yunfei admits that the insects’ appearance and moving legs disturbed her.
• The group later returns to the hotel to rest. Gu Yanqing and Lu Yunfei exchange a private remark, after which she playfully hits him and says goodbye to Qiao and Koukou.
• Koukou, already exhausted, barely manages to respond before Lu Yunfei affectionately kisses his cheek.
• At home, Qiao puts Koukou to bed and tidies his messy sleeping area. She then helps Gu Yanqing protect his injured hand while he showers.
• After bathing, Gu Yanqing deliberately remains in Qiao’s room, wearing an open shirt that reveals his physique. He claims his injured hand makes buttoning difficult and that he cannot find his pajamas.
• Qiao does the household laundry and returns to find Gu Yanqing examining items on the table in her room, including rankings for “Transmigration Novel,” “Sweet Romance,” and “Sweetness Is Justice.”

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing continues to act as the emotional mediator between Gu Yanqing and others. She is affectionate toward Gu, practical in caring for Koukou and his injury, and increasingly flustered by Gu’s deliberate displays of intimacy.
• Gu Yanqing shows his possessive and protective side. His anger is directed less at Qiao’s interaction with Lort than at Lort’s apparent disregard for Lu Yunfei’s feelings. He also becomes more openly playful and flirtatious with Qiao.
• Lort remains bold and carefree, readily eating an unfamiliar dish and encouraging Lu Yunfei to try it. His continued interest in Qiao contrasts with his apparent failure to recognize Lu Yunfei’s emotional pain.
• Lu Yunfei is revealed to be sensitive and uncomfortable around the cicada nymphs. Her easy, familiar interactions with Gu Yanqing suggest closeness, while her reaction to Lort’s behavior hints at unresolved feelings.
• Koukou is portrayed as cheerful but sleepy, enjoying the food and receiving affection from both Qiao Wanqing and Lu Yunfei.

Significant Themes

• Protectiveness and possessiveness: Gu Yanqing’s anger reflects his strong desire to protect those he cares about, especially Qiao and Lu Yunfei.
• Unrequited or complicated affection: Lort’s attention toward Qiao appears to hurt Lu Yunfei, creating tension beneath the group’s friendly interactions.
• Domestic intimacy: Cooking, childcare, laundry, and caring for an injury emphasize the growing sense of family life and romantic closeness between Qiao and Gu.
• Humor and flirtation: Gu’s injured-hand excuse and intentionally revealing clothing create a lighthearted, suggestive atmosphere between the couple.
• Food and cultural unfamiliarity: The cicada nymphs serve as a playful test of courage and personal preferences, bringing out different reactions from each character.

Character Interactions

• Qiao comforts Gu through physical affection, reinforcing their romantic bond.
• Lort tries to coax Lu Yunfei into eating the cicada nymph, but Gu intervenes protectively.
• Gu and Lu Yunfei share a private exchange before parting, suggesting familiarity and possible mutual understanding.
• Lu Yunfei affectionately says goodbye to Koukou and kisses him.
• Qiao and Gu’s domestic interaction after the others leave becomes increasingly intimate, ending with Gu in her room and examining material connected to romance and transmigration novels.

Chapter Summary

• Key events: Qiao Wanqing returns to find Gu Yanqing brooding over the expensive English-labeled cookies Lort gave her. His jealousy becomes obvious, and Qiao hides the cookies to keep him from throwing them away. Gu then initiates an intimate encounter with her while Koukou sleeps nearby. Afterward, he cares for Qiao by cleaning her and settling both her and Koukou into bed.
• Morning aftermath: Qiao has restless dreams that blend memories of her original world with her current life. On waking, she mistakes Gu Yanqing for her family’s former husky, Rice Cake, deeply offending him because she has just called another “male” by name after their intimate night. She explains the misunderstanding, while Gu remains comically jealous and wounded.
• Further interaction: Although Qiao is exhausted and sore, Gu remains energetic and tries to initiate intimacy again. She protests that Koukou may wake, but Gu insists it is still early. Just as he is about to continue, Koukou wakes and calls for his mother, interrupting them.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Becomes more comfortable with Gu’s affection and recognizes the sweetness of their relationship despite her embarrassment and physical exhaustion. She is also increasingly aware of Gu’s jealousy and responds by accommodating him, such as hiding Lort’s gift.
• Gu Yanqing: Displays exaggerated possessiveness and jealousy toward Lort, but also shows tenderness by caring for Qiao after their encounter and protecting Koukou’s comfort. His wounded reaction to being compared to Rice Cake adds a humorous, childish side to his normally domineering personality.
• Koukou: Remains an innocent and oblivious presence. His sleeping presence makes Qiao and Gu more cautious, and his morning call ultimately interrupts their private moment.

Major Themes

• Jealousy and possessiveness: Gu’s reaction to the cookies reveals his insecurity and strong attachment to Qiao.
• Domestic intimacy: The chapter emphasizes the couple’s growing closeness through teasing, physical affection, shared sleep, and Gu’s aftercare.
• Humor in romance: Gu’s dramatic jealousy and Qiao’s mistaken reference to Rice Cake create comic tension.
• Balancing romance and parenthood: The couple’s private relationship must coexist with their responsibilities around Koukou, whose presence repeatedly shapes their actions.
• Blending of worlds: Qiao’s dreams and her reference to Rice Cake reflect the continuing overlap between her former life and her current reality.

Chapter Summary: “Little Hands Clapping”

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Koukou wakes up and discovers Daddy and Mommy sharing a bed, becoming excited and insisting on sleeping between them.
• He repeatedly disrupts Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing’s private moment by climbing over Qiao Wanqing, kicking Gu Yanqing, and demanding attention.
• Gu Yanqing jokingly tells Koukou that his feet stink to stop him from kicking, but Koukou proudly insists that they smell good.
• The next morning, Grandma Qiao goes to the fields while Gu Yanqing attempts to prepare breakfast because Qiao Wanqing is exhausted and sore from the previous night.
• Gu Yanqing struggles to fry an egg, burning it on one side while leaving it raw on the other. Koukou watches enthusiastically from his stool, banging a bowl and asking for food.
• Grandma Qiao takes over the cooking, while Gu Yanqing feeds Koukou porridge and steamed egg custard.
• Koukou later “tattles” to Qiao Wanqing that Daddy’s “egg” broke and was “cooked,” unintentionally creating an amusing double meaning that leaves the adults embarrassed and amused.

2. Character Developments

• Koukou becomes more expressive and mischievous. He enjoys being between his parents, actively plays with Gu Yanqing, and demonstrates a new ability to tattle and recount events.
• Gu Yanqing is shown as affectionate but easily frustrated by Koukou’s interruptions. He also tries to be a caring partner by making breakfast, though his lack of domestic skill leads to comic failure.
• Qiao Wanqing remains patient and amused by both Koukou’s antics and Gu Yanqing’s awkwardness. Her physical exhaustion highlights the intimacy she shared with Gu Yanqing the previous night.
• Grandma Qiao continues to be practical and dependable, preparing the household’s food and rescuing Gu Yanqing from his failed cooking attempt.

3. Significant Themes

• Domestic intimacy and family warmth: The chapter focuses on ordinary, affectionate moments between the parents and their child.
• Parenthood as comic disruption: Koukou’s innocence repeatedly interrupts the couple’s romantic time, portraying children as both exhausting and endearing.
• Learning through family life: Gu Yanqing’s failed attempt to cook shows that affection and willingness do not always equal practical competence.
• Childlike innocence versus adult meaning: Koukou’s innocent words about eggs and kicking are harmless to him but carry embarrassing implications for the adults.
• Playful romance: The humor relies on the contrast between the couple’s private intimacy and the chaotic presence of their energetic child.

4. Character Interactions

• Koukou and Gu Yanqing: They playfully wrestle and tease each other, with Koukou kicking Gu Yanqing and Gu Yanqing pretending to scold him.
• Koukou and Qiao Wanqing: Koukou seeks physical closeness with Mommy and later reports Daddy’s cooking to her.
• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing: Their shared romantic intimacy is implied, while their reactions to Koukou’s innocent comments create mutual amusement and embarrassment.
• Gu Yanqing and Grandma Qiao: Grandma Qiao finds him struggling in the kitchen and takes over without hostility, reinforcing the family’s comfortable domestic dynamic.
• Grandma Qiao and Koukou: She prepares food suited to him and ensures that he is fed while the adults manage the morning.

Chapter 148 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yanqing attempts to cook breakfast for Koukou but ruins the fried egg by breaking it apart and burning it. Koukou calls him a “big, big bad guy,” while Qiao Wanqing teasingly offers faint praise.
• Lu Yunfei and the others return home. Qiao Wanqing gives Lu Yunfei and Lort wild honey from the village.
• The owner of the plot of land in front of Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing’s home finally agrees to sell it. After bargaining, they settle on 170 yuan per square meter. Because construction costs are high and the weather remains hot, Qiao Wanqing postpones building the greenhouse.
• September arrives, and Qiao Wanqing prepares to attend Agricultural Taobao’s e-commerce training program.
• She hires a manager to run the vegetarian restaurant while she is away. Mrs. Gu volunteers to care for Koukou in the city, allowing Qiao Wanqing to attend the course without bringing Grandma Qiao.
• The training program is much larger than expected, attracting four classes of students from various age groups and nearby counties. It includes an opening ceremony attended by the local television station.
• After taking a placement test, Qiao Wanqing is unexpectedly assigned to the advanced class because she has recently studied e-commerce independently.
• Despite passing the test, she struggles badly to understand the advanced lessons and feels embarrassed to admit that she is confused.
• Qiao Wanqing meets her deskmate, Chen Yu, a cheerful and highly capable young woman who quickly understands the material and answers the teacher’s questions with ease. Chen Yu introduces herself and learns that Qiao Wanqing is a mother with a background in bioengineering.

Character Development

• Gu Yanqing: Shows an endearing but comical lack of cooking ability. His attempts to maintain a dignified image are undercut by Koukou’s blunt criticism and Qiao Wanqing’s teasing.
• Qiao Wanqing: Continues expanding her business ambitions by planning a greenhouse and enrolling in e-commerce training. Although intelligent and academically successful in the past, she becomes insecure when she struggles in an unfamiliar field. Her willingness to seek help shows her determination to improve.
• Mrs. Gu: Takes a more active and supportive role in the family by offering to care for Koukou. This helps Qiao Wanqing gradually become more comfortable with her mother-in-law.
• Chen Yu: Introduced as an outgoing, friendly, and academically capable student. She may become an important source of guidance for Qiao Wanqing.
• Koukou: Remains outspoken and mischievous, openly criticizing his father and creating humorous family interactions.

Significant Themes

• Family warmth and domestic humor: Gu Yanqing’s failed cooking and Koukou’s blunt remarks highlight the playful intimacy within the family.
• Personal growth and stepping outside one’s comfort zone: Qiao Wanqing enters a completely unfamiliar field and must confront the frustration of being a beginner.
• Business development and independence: The land negotiations, greenhouse plans, restaurant management, and e-commerce course all reflect Qiao Wanqing’s expanding entrepreneurial goals.
• Intergenerational and in-law relationships: Mrs. Gu’s willingness to help with Koukou creates an opportunity for her and Qiao Wanqing to build trust gradually.
• Humility and insecurity: Despite her past academic success, Qiao Wanqing learns that intelligence in one area does not guarantee immediate mastery in another.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing feeds Koukou to stop him from tattling, but Koukou continues calling him a bad father.
• Qiao Wanqing jokes about Gu Yanqing’s burned egg while encouraging him not to give up cooking.
• Qiao Wanqing gives wild honey to Lu Yunfei and Lort, despite Gu Yanqing’s displeasure.
• Mrs. Gu offers to care for Koukou, and Qiao Wanqing accepts despite their initially awkward relationship.
• In class, Qiao Wanqing compares herself unfavorably with Chen Yu. Chen Yu later approaches her warmly, introduces herself, and begins establishing a friendly connection.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing attends the first day of an advanced rural entrepreneurship and e-commerce training course.
• The curriculum combines specialized e-commerce subjects with chemistry and physics, leaving many students overwhelmed by formulas and technical concepts.
• She meets Chen Yu, a talkative junior-college student studying logistics. Chen explains that she enrolled because her teacher presented the course as an entrepreneurship opportunity and promised it would count toward internship credits.
• The class schedule begins with theoretical knowledge about platforms such as Taobao, Tmall, and JD.com. Later lessons will cover practical skills, including opening a Taobao shop and uploading products.
• Qiao initially struggles to follow the lessons but relaxes after Chen Yu reassures her that understanding the practical material matters more than mastering every theory.
• After class, Gu Yanqing picks Qiao up from the training center. They discuss her day, and he similarly encourages her by explaining that the course will help her understand e-commerce terminology and communicate with professionals.
• Qiao mentions that a friend mocked her for taking classes, arguing that running a Taobao store does not require formal training.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing shows humility and self-awareness by admitting that she has difficulty understanding the technical material. Her initial anxiety eases as she adopts a practical attitude: remembering what she can and setting aside what she cannot yet grasp.
• Her reflections on her former internship reveal how much she has matured. She used to speak casually and openly, but workplace conflict taught her to be more cautious and restrained.
• Chen Yu is introduced as Qiao’s first friend in the class. She is young, candid, energetic, and much more academically connected to the course than Qiao.
• Gu Yanqing continues to act as a supportive and affectionate partner. He picks Qiao up, kisses her cheek, listens to her concerns, and reassures her without criticizing her lack of understanding.

Significant Themes

• Education versus practical experience: The chapter questions whether formal courses are necessary for entrepreneurship while suggesting that structured learning can provide useful foundations and vocabulary.
• Maturity and social caution: Qiao’s workplace anecdote illustrates how adult society can punish careless words and blur the line between jokes and professional conduct.
• Learning through context: Concepts Qiao could not understand from books become clearer when explained by a teacher in practical, vivid terms.
• Adaptation and self-confidence: Qiao learns not to panic when she cannot immediately master everything, recognizing that gradual exposure and hands-on practice may be more valuable than perfect comprehension.

Character Interactions

• Qiao and Chen Yu bond through conversation about their educational backgrounds, reasons for attending the course, and differing levels of familiarity with e-commerce.
• Chen encourages Qiao not to worry about her struggles and gives her a more realistic perspective on what the course requires.
• Qiao and Gu Yanqing share a warm reunion after class. He listens to her frustrations and validates the usefulness of the training, reinforcing their supportive relationship.
• Qiao’s recollection of her former coworker highlights a contrast between hostile workplace interactions in the past and the patience and understanding she now receives from Chen Yu and Gu Yanqing.

Chapter Summary: “Red Carpet”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing reflects on a random friend added to her messaging account by the previous owner of her body.
• A woman boasts that her young brother earns a substantial income running a Taobao shop and suggests that Qiao Wanqing simply buy a Tmall store and hire an experienced operator to sell dried vegetables.
• Gu Yanqing discourages this shortcut, reminding Qiao that her goal is not merely to make money but to become a respected entrepreneur through the government-supported Agricultural Taobao project. Building the business herself will give her greater credibility and prestige.
• After the program’s opening ceremony, Qiao Wanqing returns home with Gu Yanqing. She has missed her son, Koukou, and is eager to see him after only having time for a brief video call during the day.
• Gu Yanqing jokingly becomes jealous of Koukou because Qiao misses the child more openly than she misses him. The two share an affectionate, passionate reunion before entering the house.
• Koukou enthusiastically welcomes both parents. He hugs and kisses each of them, showing his affection and cleverly making sure neither feels neglected.
• At Mrs. Gu’s prompting, Koukou demonstrates what he learned: a song-and-game that teaches him to identify his fingers, eyes, nose, ears, and mouth. He performs successfully and receives enthusiastic praise from his parents.
• Qiao realizes that the game has helped Koukou overcome his tendency to confuse facial features, demonstrating the value of patient, playful teaching.
• Over time, Qiao becomes accustomed to the program’s eight-to-six schedule. Many initial trainees drop out, but new participants gradually join, keeping the program at roughly three classes.
• The training progresses from theoretical lessons to practical instruction in operating online stores, with classes moving into the office area.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Continues shifting from someone tempted by easy wealth to someone committed to building a legitimate, respected business. She understands that personal achievement and public recognition matter more than simply using money to guarantee success. She also grows more comfortable balancing entrepreneurship, romance, and motherhood.
• Gu Yanqing: Acts as both Qiao’s romantic partner and practical mentor. He refuses to let her rely on shortcuts, pushing her toward genuine accomplishment. His playful jealousy reveals his deep affection and desire for her attention.
• Koukou: Shows growing intelligence, affection, and confidence. He successfully learns to identify different facial features and enjoys performing for his parents. His ability to show love to both parents also highlights his emotional sensitivity.
• Mrs. Gu: Supports Koukou’s development through structured but playful education and encourages him to demonstrate his progress.

Significant Themes

• Achievement versus easy wealth: The chapter contrasts buying success with earning genuine recognition through hard work and competence.
• Entrepreneurship and social status: Qiao’s goal is not only financial independence but also becoming a respected female entrepreneur whose success carries public value.
• Family affection: The warm reunion between Qiao, Gu Yanqing, and Koukou emphasizes their close-knit family bond.
• Learning through play: Koukou’s progress illustrates how repetition, encouragement, and games can make learning effective for children.
• Romantic sweetness and everyday intimacy: Qiao and Gu Yanqing’s teasing, longing, and affection show how deeply their relationship has developed.

Character Interactions

• Qiao and Gu Yanqing debate the proper way to build her business, with him teasing her while still guiding her toward a more meaningful goal.
• Their romantic reunion combines playful jealousy with physical affection, showing their comfortable intimacy.
• Qiao and Koukou exchange an emotionally affectionate reunion, while Koukou also makes a point of showing love to Gu Yanqing.
• Mrs. Gu leads Koukou through the educational song, and Qiao and Gu Yanqing encourage him with praise and applause.
• The family’s shared attention and encouragement strengthen Koukou’s confidence and reinforce their affectionate household dynamic.

Chapter Summary

Plot and events

As Qiao Wanqing becomes more involved in studying professional shop operations, she grows increasingly dedicated and finds the work fulfilling. By mid-September, Gu Yanqing’s company prepares for its anniversary banquet, to which Qiao Wanqing and Koukou are invited. Since she has never appeared before Gu Yanqing’s employees, Qiao feels both nervous and curious about their reaction to her as the “boss’s wife.”
On the afternoon of the event, Qiao, Gu Yanqing, and Koukou arrive at the hotel. While Koukou naps before the banquet, Qiao tries to rest, but Gu Yanqing returns and initiates an intimate encounter. Their playfulness causes them to lose track of time, leaving Qiao sore and worried that she will have difficulty walking the red carpet. Gu Yanqing remains unconcerned, explaining that they can make a late entrance because the company president is expected to appear last.
The stylist and makeup artist arrive at 3:30 p.m. Qiao is dressed in a sapphire-blue, diamond-embellished off-the-shoulder mermaid gown, with an elegant hairstyle and the necklace Gu Yanqing previously bought her. The finished look makes her appear youthful, graceful, and noble.

Character development

Qiao is becoming more confident and serious about her professional ambitions, though she remains inexperienced and nervous about elite social occasions. Her relationship with Gu Yanqing has also grown more intimate and relaxed; she can openly tease, scold, and resist him despite his position. Gu Yanqing, usually viewed as restrained and aloof, is shown to be playful, shameless, affectionate, and possessive in private. Qiao also continues to care for Koukou, balancing motherhood with her growing career and social role.

Themes

The chapter emphasizes Qiao’s personal growth, her adjustment to wealthier professional circles, and the contrast between public dignity and private intimacy. It also highlights domestic happiness, romantic teasing, and the fulfillment she gains from both work and family life.

Character interactions

Qiao and Gu Yanqing share flirtatious, physically intimate banter before the banquet, with Qiao worrying about appearances and timing while Gu Yanqing treats the situation humorously. Qiao cares for Koukou and ensures he naps so he will not fall asleep during the celebration. Gu Yanqing supports Qiao’s preparation by arranging professional stylists, giving her privacy to get ready, and staying with Koukou.

Chapter Summary

Qiao Wanqing finishes her styling for the company event, and stylist Andy is amazed by her flawless skin. She names the expensive skincare brand used by the body’s original owner, accidentally prompting Andy to consider spending all his money on it, though another makeup artist correctly observes that Qiao’s beauty is largely natural. When Qiao returns to the room, Gu Yanqing compliments her appearance and assures her that she will impress everyone.
While Gu Yanqing prepares, Qiao looks after their son, Koukou, who has just woken from a long nap. Confused by his mother’s new hairstyle and formal appearance, Koukou initially studies her before recognizing her and happily reaching out to be held. He calls her “Mama” and says “pretty,” briefly making Qiao think he is complimenting her—only for her to realize that he is actually admiring the necklace Gu Yanqing gave her. Qiao jokingly feels hurt that her young son does not consider her pretty.
Qiao dresses Koukou in a formal suit, which makes him look like a handsome little prince with an unusually mature air. She privately notes the irony that, despite his appearance, he is destined to become the story’s villain. Gu Yanqing then appears in a black suit with an open collar, creating a striking image beside Qiao. He returns her compliment, calls her his “queen,” and takes her hand as they prepare to attend the event.
For their red-carpet entrance, Qiao and Gu plan to hold Koukou’s hands before Gu carries him and teaches him to greet the crowd. Their arrival shocks the company employees, who had believed Gu Yanqing was an unmarried “golden bachelor.” Seeing him with an exceptionally beautiful wife and a child who strongly resembles him, everyone concludes that they are a family and views Gu as extraordinarily fortunate.
Koukou remains calm and enthusiastic despite the large crowd. After watching his parents wave and greet the employees, he imitates them, breaking free of their hands and waving earnestly while saying “bye-bye.” Because the music and cheering drown out his voice, the employees misinterpret his mouth movements and jokingly assume he is calling them “Daddy,” creating a humorous misunderstanding.

Character Development and Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing: Gains confidence in her elegant appearance but remains modest and somewhat self-conscious. Her affectionate, humorous relationship with Koukou is emphasized.
• Gu Yanqing: Shows warmth and pride toward Qiao and Koukou, publicly presenting them as his family for the first time.
• Koukou: Demonstrates recognition, affection, curiosity, and an ability to imitate adults. His confident behavior at the event contrasts with his young age.
• Family dynamic: Qiao, Gu, and Koukou appear as a loving, visually impressive family, surprising Gu’s employees and changing their perception of him.

Major Themes

• Family and public identity: Gu’s secret marriage and child are revealed through the event.
• Appearance versus reality: Qiao’s flawless appearance is attributed more to natural beauty than expensive products, while Koukou looks like a prince despite his future role as a villain.
• Childlike imitation and innocence: Koukou humorously copies his parents’ gestures without fully understanding the social situation.
• Romantic and familial affection: The chapter highlights Gu and Qiao’s growing public intimacy and their warm bond with their son.

Chapter 153 Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• During the company’s red-carpet event, Koukou enthusiastically waves and calls out to the employees. The crowd jokingly speculates about what he is trying to say, eventually deciding that he is proudly celebrating his father, Gu Yanqing’s, “empire.”
• Gu Yanqing gently corrects Koukou when he says goodbye, teaching him to say “hello” instead. Koukou obediently repeats the greeting, delighting everyone.
• Employees are surprised and charmed by Gu Yanqing’s warm, affectionate behavior with his son, since he is normally stern and intimidating at work.
• After waving throughout the red carpet, Koukou becomes tired and thirsty. Qiao Wanqing gives him water and wipes away his sweat, while Gu Yanqing praises and teases him. Koukou proudly demonstrates how happy he is by spreading his arms as wide as possible.
• Once the guests are seated, the evening’s program is introduced: Gu Yanqing will give a speech, followed by dinner, departmental performances, and raffle activities.
• Qiao Wanqing changes from her formal gown into a more practical lavender-pink cocktail dress so she can care for Koukou more easily. Gu Yanqing had thoughtfully prepared the dress for her.
• Gu Yanqing warns Qiao Wanqing that he may be away from the table and advises her to refuse alcohol politely, especially if anyone becomes overly familiar or drunk. He tells her to make it clear that she is already taken if necessary.
• Koukou grows jealous of their private conversation and deliberately kicks off one of his shoes. Qiao Wanqing patiently tries to teach him that removing his shoes in public is rude, while Gu Yanqing explains that Koukou is pretending not to understand—something his older son, Yuan Yuan, once did as well.

Character Developments

• Gu Yanqing: His gentle and attentive side becomes visible to his employees. He is affectionate toward Koukou and considerate toward Qiao Wanqing, anticipating her needs and protecting her from unwanted attention.
• Qiao Wanqing: She takes on a patient, nurturing role with Koukou, teaching him manners despite being amused and slightly exasperated by his mischief. She also becomes more comfortable as Gu Yanqing’s partner in public.
• Koukou: He shows his energetic, affectionate, and playful personality. He enjoys attention, enthusiastically interacts with the crowd, becomes tired from his excitement, and deliberately acts innocent when misbehaving.

Significant Themes

• Family affection: The chapter emphasizes the warmth between Gu Yanqing, Qiao Wanqing, and Koukou.
• Public and private identities: Gu Yanqing’s intimidating corporate image contrasts sharply with his tenderness as a father.
• Parenting and guidance: Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing gently teach Koukou manners while accepting his childish behavior.
• Protective romance: Gu Yanqing’s concern over Qiao Wanqing’s safety and comfort reflects the growing intimacy and stability of their relationship.
• Childhood innocence and mischief: Koukou’s exaggerated excitement and playful refusal to understand provide much of the chapter’s humor.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing corrects and encourages Koukou during the red carpet, then comforts and teases him afterward.
• Qiao Wanqing cares for Koukou by giving him water, wiping his sweat, and calming him after his energetic performance.
• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing exchange a private, flirtatious conversation about drinking and unwanted advances.
• Qiao Wanqing scolds Koukou for kicking off his shoe, while Gu Yanqing explains and sympathizes with the child’s deliberately innocent behavior.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• At the company banquet, Qiao Wanqing’s young son, Koukou, playfully imitates her scolding her and instantly dissolves her irritation.
• The guests notice the affectionate interaction between Gu Yanqing, Qiao Wanqing, and their child. They speculate about Qiao Wanqing’s background, since no one recognizes her as a member of a prominent local family.
• Employees question Assistant Wang Xiao about Gu Yanqing’s private life and his prolonged absences from the company. Wang avoids revealing anything, privately reflecting on Qiao Wanqing’s unpleasant past and her unexpected rise to become Gu Yanqing’s wife.
• Gu Yanqing takes the stage to deliver the opening speech. His serious presence immediately quiets the entire banquet hall.
• Hearing his father’s amplified voice, Koukou excitedly calls out “Daddy,” interrupting the formal speech and causing the guests to laugh. Gu Yanqing calmly introduces the child as his son, Gu Mingcong, and apologizes for the interruption.
• Qiao Wanqing explains that Koukou’s original registered name, Gu Siqiao, was changed to Gu Mingcong because the former name sounded embarrassing to her.
• After the speech, the banquet begins. Company employees perform intentionally ridiculous skits, dances, and cross-dressing acts, creating a lively and humorous atmosphere.
• Gu Yanqing traditionally visits each table with senior executives to toast the employees, who often try to take advantage of the rare opportunity to get their usually restrained boss drunk.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: Shows growing comfort and affection in her role as a mother and Gu Yanqing’s wife. She remains attentive to social etiquette but is also amused and slightly embarrassed by Koukou’s behavior.
• Gu Yanqing: Demonstrates his composed, authoritative public persona while handling his son’s interruption with patience and warmth. His contrast between stern executive and gentle father reinforces his appeal.
• Koukou/Gu Mingcong: Displays childish affection and dependence on his father. His innocent interruption highlights his close relationship with Gu Yanqing and adds humor to the formal event.
• Wang Xiao: Remains wary of Qiao Wanqing because of her former behavior, though he recognizes that she is now securely positioned as Gu Yanqing’s wife and adjusts his conduct accordingly.
• Company employees: Reveal a playful, informal side beneath their professional appearances, eagerly teasing the boss and turning the annual banquet into a chance for entertainment and mischief.

Significant Themes

• Family intimacy in public: The chapter contrasts the couple’s private family warmth with the formal, scrutinized environment of the company banquet.
• Reputation and social status: Guests speculate about Qiao Wanqing’s origins, while Wang Xiao reflects on how her current position as the “victor” changes how others must treat her.
• The contrast between public and private identities: Gu Yanqing is an intimidating, disciplined executive in public but a caring father at home.
• Humor and domestic sweetness: Koukou’s innocent behavior and the employees’ deliberately embarrassing performances create a lighthearted atmosphere.
• Transformation and judgment: Qiao Wanqing’s past continues to influence how Wang Xiao views her, even as her present circumstances suggest personal and social change.

Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing and Koukou share a playful mother-son exchange.
• Employees gossip about Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing and pressure Wang Xiao for information.
• Gu Yanqing publicly acknowledges Koukou as his son after the child interrupts his speech.
• Qiao Wanqing gently teaches Koukou when it is appropriate to call for his father.
• The employees interact with Gu Yanqing through teasing and drinking challenges, demonstrating their familiarity with him despite his intimidating position.

Chapter 155 Summary

Plot points and events

At Gu Yanqing’s company anniversary banquet, Gu is repeatedly toasted by executives and business partners, while Qiao Wanqing is approached as the “boss’s wife.” She politely entertains unfamiliar guests but becomes increasingly uncomfortable and overwhelmed. After completing one round of toasts, Gu returns visibly affected by the alcohol and asks Qiao to serve him soup and massage his temple. Their affectionate interaction attracts attention and prompts teasing from those around them.
Later, Xia Yuchu and her husband approach to toast them. Qiao recognizes Xia as the woman the original owner once befriended and exploited to get close to Gu, and recognizes Xia’s husband as the employee whose discovery of her pregnancy had indirectly led Gu to learn about her. Qiao realizes this is the confrontation she has been dreading. Xia offers outward congratulations, but her mocking tone reveals her lingering resentment. When Qiao is about to drink, Gu stops her, points out that Xia is pregnant, and then insists that Qiao cannot drink either. He replaces her wine with his own coconut juice, turning the toast into a harmless symbolic gesture.

Character development

Qiao continues to struggle with social situations outside her rural experience, but she maintains composure and courtesy despite feeling intimidated. Her awareness of the original owner’s past wrongdoing makes her anxious and guilt-ridden, yet she chooses not to respond cruelly to Xia, showing increasing maturity and restraint. Gu, despite being drunk and surrounded by important guests, remains attentive to Qiao’s comfort and reputation. He openly protects her and demonstrates their closeness in public, suggesting greater confidence in their relationship.

Significant themes

The chapter emphasizes public displays of intimacy, contrasting social expectations with genuine affection. It also explores guilt and responsibility, as Qiao feels obligated to face consequences for actions committed by the original owner of her body. Other themes include social insecurity and class unfamiliarity, protective love, and the tension between outward politeness and unresolved resentment.

Character interactions

Qiao and Gu share playful, affectionate banter after she massages his temple, with Gu teasing her about enjoying their public display of affection. Their mutual concern is evident in Qiao caring for his hangover and Gu preventing her from drinking. Qiao’s encounter with Xia is polite but tense: Xia’s congratulations are laced with sarcasm, while Qiao refuses to show weakness or retaliate. Gu’s intervention decisively supports Qiao and prevents the confrontation from escalating.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• During the celebration, Koukou returns covered in red dragon fruit stains after an employee gives him some fruit.
• Qiao Wanqing takes Koukou to clean up and change clothes, while Gu Yanqing follows them.
• In the restroom, Gu Yanqing helps Qiao Wanqing wash Koukou’s face and hands.
• Qiao Wanqing apologizes for her past behavior, prompted by seeing Xia Yuchu and recalling the original owner’s troubling history.
• Gu Yanqing reveals that he has investigated her past and realized that the current Qiao Wanqing is fundamentally different from the woman she used to be.
• He accepts that she is no longer the original person, saying that she is now “Qiao Wanqing” and remains his fiancée.
• Gu Yanqing produces a custom-made ring and proposes earlier than planned, though the proposal takes place awkwardly in the restroom.
• Koukou interrupts the romantic moment by reaching for the ring and splashing both adults with water.
• After they leave the restroom, Gu Yanqing admits that he has a headache, suggesting he is drunk from drinking wine.
• He refuses to return downstairs until Qiao Wanqing responds to his proposal. She reassures him that she never rejected him.

2. Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing: She becomes increasingly emotional and vulnerable. Her past identity and the mystery surrounding her transformation are brought into the open, but she is relieved by Gu Yanqing’s acceptance. Her feelings for him are clearly deepening, and she reacts warmly to his proposal despite the awkward setting.
• Gu Yanqing: He demonstrates remarkable understanding and emotional maturity by accepting that Qiao Wanqing is not the same person she once was. His investigation shows that he has noticed the drastic change in her personality, while his proposal confirms his commitment to her. After drinking, he becomes unusually needy and childlike.
• Koukou: He remains energetic and innocent, creating comic relief through his messy eating, fascination with the ring, and water splashing. His presence also reinforces the family-like bond between Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing.

3. Significant Themes

• Identity and transformation: Gu Yanqing recognizes that Qiao Wanqing’s personality has changed so dramatically that she may effectively be a different person.
• Acceptance and unconditional love: Rather than fearing or rejecting her supernatural circumstances, Gu Yanqing accepts her as she is now.
• Family and domestic intimacy: Caring for Koukou together allows Qiao Wanqing and Gu Yanqing to function naturally as parents and strengthens their relationship.
• Romance amid everyday chaos: The proposal is sincere but interrupted by cleaning a child, changing clothes, and dealing with drunkenness, emphasizing the story’s sweet and humorous romantic tone.
• Past versus present: Qiao Wanqing’s former identity matters less to Gu Yanqing than the person she has become.

4. Character Interactions

• Qiao Wanqing gently scolds and cares for Koukou after his fruit-related mess.
• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing cooperate quietly while cleaning and changing Koukou, revealing their growing domestic closeness.
• Gu Yanqing directly addresses Qiao Wanqing’s changed personality and reassures her that he accepts her.
• His proposal creates an emotional moment between them, but Koukou interrupts by trying to take the ring and splashing water everywhere.
• Gu Yanqing’s drunken insistence that Qiao Wanqing accept his proposal leads to a playful, affectionate exchange in which she reassures him that she is not refusing.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Yanqing formally proposes to Qiao Wanqing during the banquet. She accepts, and he places an engagement ring on her finger before kissing her forehead.
• Koukou becomes jealous that he does not have a ring. To comfort him, Qiao Wanqing ties a red ribbon around his finger. He is satisfied only after deciding his ribbon is larger and prettier than his mother’s ring.
• The family returns to the banquet, where Gu Yanqing continues to toast the guests with unusual energy. Qiao Wanqing realizes he deliberately pretended to be drunk in order to surprise her with the proposal.
• On the drive home, Gu Yanqing mentions that Xia Yuchu wants to visit. Qiao Wanqing suspects Xia has ulterior motives, so Gu Yanqing decides to refuse the visit and speak with her privately.
• Their life settles into a peaceful routine. Qiao Wanqing studies, Gu Yanqing works, and Koukou continues his playful antics.
• After a month of training, Qiao Wanqing begins the practical phase of her e-commerce course. Her six-person group receives an agricultural-products Taobao store to operate and is taught how to develop bestselling products, design listings, and conduct marketing.
• Chen Yu complains that the government-funded program is exploiting the trainees to create profitable stores before reclaiming them. Qiao Wanqing remains optimistic, viewing the experience as a valuable opportunity to gain practical skills and future support.
• Qiao becomes so absorbed in the training that she spends most of her evenings working in the study, leaving Gu Yanqing longing for private time with her.
• When Qiao finally finishes early one night, Gu Yanqing hopes for intimacy, but Koukou unexpectedly remains awake and insists on playing with his toy shark, frustrating his father’s plans.

Character Developments

• Qiao Wanqing accepts her relationship with Gu Yanqing more fully and recognizes that he loves her despite—or perhaps because of—her comparatively straightforward and less calculating nature.
• She becomes increasingly independent and motivated in her professional development, focusing less on money and more on learning useful e-commerce skills.
• Gu Yanqing demonstrates both romantic thoughtfulness and playful deception through his staged drunkenness and surprise proposal. He is supportive of Qiao’s ambitions but begins to feel neglected as her studies consume her time.
• Koukou displays his childish jealousy and strong attachment to both parents. His confidence grows as he becomes more willing to play with his shark toy independently.
• Xia Yuchu remains an implied source of tension, with Qiao Wanqing suspecting that her proposed visit is motivated by resentment or confrontation.

Significant Themes

• Family and belonging: The engagement strengthens the image of Qiao, Gu, and Koukou as a family, while Koukou’s demand for his own “ring” reflects his desire to be included.
• Romance and playful intimacy: Gu’s proposal is sincere but wrapped in teasing and deception, highlighting the couple’s affectionate dynamic.
• Personal growth and independence: Qiao Wanqing’s training marks her effort to develop practical abilities and build an identity beyond her relationship and family.
• Balancing love and ambition: Qiao’s dedication to her studies creates tension with Gu Yanqing, who supports her but also misses their private time together.
• Practical realities of opportunity: The training program presents both a valuable learning experience and possible exploitation, showing the complicated relationship between government support and commercial profit.

Character Interactions

• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing share a tender engagement moment, followed by mutual teasing about his ability to trick her.
• Qiao and Koukou interact playfully when she gives him a ribbon to resolve his jealousy.
• Gu and Qiao discuss Xia Yuchu’s visit, with Gu respecting Qiao’s discomfort and choosing to reject the invitation.
• Qiao encourages Chen Yu to view the questionable training arrangement positively, emphasizing long-term benefits over immediate frustration.
• Gu Yanqing and Koukou compete indirectly for Qiao’s attention: Gu hopes for romantic time with her, while Koukou keeps her occupied with his shark game.

Chapter Summary: “Sneaking a Bite”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Qiao Wanqing and Koukou play with a biting-shark toy. Koukou eventually presses the trigger, startling himself before becoming excited and asking his mother to reset it.
• Gu Yanqing becomes visibly jealous and irritated because the toy was apparently sent by someone he views as a potential romantic rival. He ends the game and persuades Koukou to sleep by promising to take him out the next day.
• After Koukou falls asleep, Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing share an intimate moment. They are interrupted when Koukou wakes and reminds his father not to lie to him.
• The following morning, Qiao Wanqing prepares supplies for Koukou’s outing. Gu Yanqing reveals that he plans to take their son to his company rather than to a recreational location.
• Qiao Wanqing warns Gu Yanqing to supervise Koukou carefully around wires, electrical outlets, and other dangers.
• Koukou wakes eager to go out. When Gu Yanqing teases him and temporarily ignores him, Koukou becomes upset and complains to Qiao Wanqing. She reassures him that his father really will take him out.
• Qiao Wanqing leaves for class after breakfast, though she remains concerned about Gu Yanqing managing Koukou alone at work.
• At the business incubator, Qiao Wanqing’s team discovers that a customer-service message about their dried sweet potatoes went unanswered overnight. The potential buyer asks whether the product is authentic and whether a bulk discount is available.

Character Developments

• Koukou shows increasing independence, curiosity, and energy. He understands promises, reacts strongly when he feels deceived, and uses sulking and complaints to express his emotions.
• Gu Yanqing displays both jealousy and affection. He is irritated by the shark’s presumed sender but is also playful and attentive with Koukou. Taking his son to work marks a step toward greater responsibility in childcare.
• Qiao Wanqing acts as the practical, emotionally perceptive parent. She manages preparations, monitors Koukou’s safety, and gently mediates between father and son. Her playful intimacy with Gu Yanqing also reflects their growing closeness.

Significant Themes

• Family intimacy and domestic life: The chapter focuses on ordinary household interactions that reveal the family’s affection and familiarity.
• Parenting and responsibility: Qiao Wanqing’s safety concerns and Gu Yanqing’s attempt to care for Koukou highlight the challenges of raising an energetic toddler.
• Jealousy and romantic affection: Gu Yanqing’s reaction to the toy exposes his possessive feelings toward Qiao Wanqing, while their private teasing shows mutual intimacy.
• Trust and promises: Koukou’s insistence that his father keep his word emphasizes how children interpret and depend on parental promises.
• Balancing family and work: The transition from home life to Gu Yanqing’s workplace and Qiao Wanqing’s school responsibilities introduces the practical difficulty of managing both.

Character Interactions

• Koukou and Qiao Wanqing share a playful, affectionate relationship while playing the shark game.
• Gu Yanqing interrupts their play out of jealousy and uses the promise of an outing to settle Koukou.
• Gu Yanqing and Qiao Wanqing exchange a tender but teasing moment after putting Koukou to bed, revealing their romantic relationship.
• Koukou catches them and humorously reprimands Gu Yanqing for making promises he might not keep.
• The next morning, Koukou’s brief conflict with his father is resolved when Qiao Wanqing confirms that the outing is real.
• Qiao Wanqing and her teammates collaborate on running their online store, confronting a customer-service issue involving their local dried-sweet-potato product.

Key plot points and events

• The group receives its first message from a potential customer, asking whether Linhe dried sweet potatoes are authentic and affordable. The message went unanswered, costing the team a possible first sale.
• The group confronts Sister Hong, who was responsible for customer service. She admits she was away but claims Qiao Wanqing was supposed to cover for her. Wanqing points out that she only agreed to cover the afternoon, and that their WeChat messages confirm it.
• Chen Yu angrily defends Wanqing, criticizing Sister Hong for neglecting her work and shifting the blame. She also accuses Sister Hong of joining mainly to collect her county’s reward rather than to learn.
• Sister Hong counters that Wanqing may also be motivated by county rewards. Wanqing denies this, explaining that she signed up independently and was not listed among her county’s reward recipients.
• Organizers intervene and call the women into an office to settle the dispute. The chapter ends as they are about to speak with Director Zheng.

Character developments and interactions

• Qiao Wanqing remains composed despite being unfairly blamed. She relies on the written record to establish what she agreed to, and clarifies her reasons for joining. Though she appreciates Chen Yu’s support, she is uncomfortable with the conflict escalating.
• Chen Yu shows how outspoken and driven she is. Her defense of Wanqing also exposes her long-standing frustration with Sister Hong’s casual approach to the project.
• Sister Hong is revealed as defensive and reluctant to take responsibility. She chose the relatively easy customer-service role, has resisted contributing to more demanding work, and now tries to transfer blame.
• Their argument draws the attention of the whole entrepreneurship center, highlighting how a small work failure becomes a larger clash over effort, fairness, and commitment.

Significant themes

• Responsibility and accountability: The missed message matters less than Sister Hong’s refusal to own her mistake.
• Different motivations for participation: Some members genuinely want to learn, while others may be motivated mainly by financial rewards.
• Teamwork and trust: A group depends on people honoring assigned roles and supporting one another; blame-shifting undermines that cooperation.

Plot points

• Director Zheng mediates the dispute among Qiao Wanqing, Chen Yu, and Sister Hong. He acknowledges that all three may have contributed to the conflict and proposes apologies and a fresh effort to work together.
• Sister Hong refuses to apologize and accuses Director Zheng of favoring Wanqing because he wants to sleep with her. Wanqing, furious, points out that she is married and warns Sister Hong that the accusation could be defamatory.
• Wanqing and Chen Yu leave rather than continue arguing. Zheng later asks them to return that afternoon, saying he will consult the rest of the team and consider reorganizing the groups.
• Wanqing thanks Chen Yu over coffee, then sends her back to the hotel to rest. Wanqing travels unannounced to Gu Yanqing’s company to visit him and his son.
• At the company, staff recognize and welcome her. She takes a private elevator to the sixteenth floor, where she unexpectedly encounters Wang Xiao.

Character developments and interactions

• Wanqing remains composed through much of the mediation but becomes decisive when Sister Hong makes a personal accusation. She refuses to keep working in an environment she considers untenable and shows appreciation for Chen Yu’s support.
• Chen Yu fiercely defends Wanqing and is visibly enraged by Sister Hong’s claims. The two leave together, reinforcing their solidarity.
• Sister Hong escalates the dispute by claiming she is being excluded, then rejects compromise and attacks Zheng’s motives when asked to apologize.
• Director Zheng tries to calm the group and find a practical compromise, but his proposal fails when Sister Hong refuses to cooperate.
• Wang Xiao is startled to see Wanqing arrive unexpectedly and appears eager to avoid her.

Significant themes

• The chapter highlights how workplace conflicts can resist mediation when one party refuses accountability.
• It contrasts Wanqing and Chen Yu’s mutual support with Sister Hong’s accusations and mistrust.
• Wanqing’s firm response emphasizes personal boundaries and the consequences of defamation.