Chapter Summaries

Plot points and events

• Shen Zeyu tries to avoid going to Lu Cizhou’s office, but Lu Cizhou and Lu Yu enthusiastically insist he come along. Shen gives up and rides with them, sulking at Lu Cizhou.
• Lu Yu worries that his dads are fighting. Shen reassures him that he is only pretending to be angry, which calms the child.
• At Lu Corporation, employees secretly gossip in a group chat about Lu Cizhou bringing Shen to work, speculating that Shen is his spouse and admiring their appearance together.
• Lu Cizhou offers Shen food and a lounge, while keeping up the pretense that Shen is still angry. Shen settles on the sofa and plays on his phone.
• Lu Cizhou makes Lu Yu look through documents and later do his homework, claiming the child must prepare to inherit the company. In reality, the documents are just meant to keep him occupied.
• After Lu Cizhou leaves for a meeting, Lu Yu complains of being tired, then finishes his homework. Shen praises him and carries him to the lounge so they can nap.
• When Lu Cizhou returns, the office is empty.

Character developments

• Shen Zeyu remains playful and fond of relaxing, but shows warmth and attentiveness toward Lu Yu. He pretends to be angry with Lu Cizhou while reassuring the child that their family is secure.
• Lu Cizhou teases Shen by steering him to the office, yet quietly accommodates his need to rest. His talk of Lu Yu’s future responsibilities is largely a way to keep the boy occupied.
• Lu Yu is sensitive to tension between his dads and fears losing his sense of a complete family. Though reluctant to study, he is diligent with his homework and affectionate toward both parents.

Significant themes

• Family security and belonging: Lu Yu’s anxiety about his dads’ apparent disagreement reflects how much he values their united family.
• Affection expressed through teasing and care: Shen and Lu Cizhou’s mock annoyance sits alongside their concern for Lu Yu and consideration for each other.
• Parenting and responsibility: The chapter contrasts Lu Yu’s young age with Lu Cizhou’s expectations for his future, while showing Shen’s more indulgent approach.
• Public image versus private behavior: Employees see a polished, serious workplace, while the family’s private dynamic is playful and relaxed.

Character interactions

• Shen and Lu Cizhou trade teasing looks and curt remarks, with Lu Cizhou deliberately provoking Shen and Shen maintaining his pretend sulk.
• Shen reassures Lu Yu that the tension is not a real fight; Lu Yu’s concern shows his dependence on their family being harmonious.
• Lu Cizhou assigns Lu Yu documents and homework, while Shen sympathizes with the child and later praises and comforts him.
• The employees observe the trio’s arrival and privately speculate about Shen’s relationship with Lu Cizhou.

Key plot points and events

• Lu Cizhou finds Shen Zeyu and Lu Yu asleep in the lounge at work. He later wakes them, and the family goes home.
• After dinner, Lu Yu asks Lu Cizhou to bathe him. He reveals that Shen Zeyu is pretending to be angry and urges Lu Cizhou to make it up to him.
• Lu Cizhou reminds Shen Zeyu about his workout, irritating him. That evening, Lu Cizhou apologizes by drying Shen Zeyu’s hair.
• Shen Zeyu enjoys the attention and asks whether Lu Cizhou has dried anyone else’s hair. Lu Cizhou says he has only done it for him.
• Shen Zeyu decides that, as compensation, he wants to feel Lu Cizhou’s abs. Lu Cizhou agrees, but then teases him that his touching has left Lu Cizhou aroused and insists Shen Zeyu help resolve the situation. Embarrassed, Shen Zeyu tells him to handle it as he usually does, and Lu Cizhou lets him off.

Character developments and interactions

• Lu Yu shows concern for Shen Zeyu and insight into the couple’s dynamic, acting as a mediator between the two.
• Lu Cizhou is attentive and patient: he cares for Lu Yu, notices Shen Zeyu’s habit of putting off drying his hair, and offers a personal apology. He also playfully turns Shen Zeyu’s request into teasing flirtation.
• Shen Zeyu is tired and playfully resentful about exercise, but his anger is not serious. He is pleased by Lu Cizhou’s gentle attention and secretly delighted to learn he is the only person whose hair Lu Cizhou has dried. His confidence gives way to embarrassment when Lu Cizhou flirts back.

Significant themes

• Family care and intimacy: Lu Cizhou’s practical care for both Lu Yu and Shen Zeyu underpins the domestic scene.
• Communication and reconciliation: Lu Yu recognizes Shen Zeyu’s feelings and encourages Lu Cizhou to address them directly.
• Playful affection and exclusivity: Hair-drying and teasing become expressions of closeness, while Lu Cizhou’s answer reassures Shen Zeyu of their special bond.

Key plot points

• After Lu Cizhou’s teasing the night before, Shen Zeyu lies awake listening to music, then wakes early and is mortified when Lu Cizhou notices his physical embarrassment and offers to “help.”
• Shen escapes to the bathroom and avoids Lu by taking Lu Yu to kindergarten himself. Lu Cizhou realizes he is being avoided and decides to give him space.
• With no plans, Shen spends the morning wandering and eating. He accepts Bai Yi’s invitation to lunch, thanks him for inviting him, and insists on paying despite Bai Yi’s protests.
• Shen enjoys Bai Yi’s company and invites him to karaoke. They sing together while Shen messages Lu Cizhou to handle Lu Yu’s pickup.
• Lu Yu questions whether Lu Cizhou has made Shen happy; Lu Cizhou confidently says he has, misunderstanding Shen’s avoidance as embarrassment.
• After dinner, Shen finally calls Lu Cizhou and jokingly addresses him as “the Heartless Great Demon King.”

Character development and interactions

• Shen Zeyu remains flirtatious but easily flustered when Lu Cizhou turns the teasing back on him. He avoids Lu for the day, yet shows warmth and generosity toward Bai Yi, quickly feeling they are compatible.
• Lu Cizhou enjoys provoking Shen but also recognizes when to back off. He reads Shen’s reactions as shyness rather than rejection and remains confident about their relationship.
• Lu Yu is affectionate toward Shen and perceptive about the tension between the adults, playfully checking whether Lu Cizhou has made him happy.
• Bai Yi is grateful for Shen’s earlier help and grows more comfortable with him over lunch and karaoke.

Significant themes

• Flirtation and embarrassment: Their attraction is expressed through teasing, awkwardness, and Shen’s attempts to escape.
• Miscommunication: Lu Cizhou and Shen interpret the same behavior differently, sustaining the romantic tension.
• Growing closeness: Shen’s ease with Bai Yi and Lu Yu’s family-minded questions contrast with his unresolved dynamic with Lu Cizhou.

Key plot points and events

• After Shen Zeyu gets drunk and falls asleep at a bar, his friend Bai Yi calls the contact saved as “Inhumane Demon Lord.” Lu Cizhou answers and goes to collect him.
• Lu Cizhou leaves his son, Lu Yu, at home, then carries Shen Zeyu out. On the way, Shen wakes briefly, praises Lu Cizhou’s looks, confesses that he likes him, and kisses him. Lu Cizhou stops him, unwilling to take advantage of him while he is drunk, and settles him back to sleep.
• At home, Lu Yu worries about his father but accepts Lu Cizhou’s reassurance and agrees to sleep alone while Lu Cizhou looks after Shen.
• Once Shen wakes, he remembers little of the trip home. Lu Cizhou carefully asks whether calling someone an “inhumane demon lord” is insulting. Shen agrees it is and offers an elaborate, profanity-free rebuke—unaware that he is insulting himself.
• Rather than confront Shen directly about the contact name, Lu Cizhou borrows his phone and changes it. Shen, still unaware, goes to bed and leaves room for Lu Cizhou beside him.

Character developments and interactions

• Lu Cizhou shows restraint and care: he stops Shen’s drunken kiss, tends to him at home, and reassures Lu Yu. His amusement at Shen’s accidental self-insult also brings out his playful, teasing side.
• Shen Zeyu is uninhibited when drunk, openly expressing attraction and affection before forgetting what happened. His sober caution contrasts with his drunken boldness.
• Lu Yu is trusting and considerate, accepting his father’s explanation and giving the adults space.
• Bai Yi acts as a helpful intermediary, arranging for Lu Cizhou to pick Shen up despite feeling awkward about the contact name.

Significant themes

• Care and consent: Lu Cizhou refuses to respond romantically to Shen’s advances while Shen is intoxicated.
• Comic misunderstanding: Shen condemns the insulting contact name without realizing it refers to Lu Cizhou—and then unknowingly insults himself by defending the target.
• Growing intimacy: Shen’s confession and kiss reveal feelings he cannot yet express clearly while sober, while Lu Cizhou’s attentive care suggests deep affection of his own.

Plot points and events

• Shen Zeyu avoids Lu Cizhou after an awkward incident the previous night and tells Lu Yu he’ll stay with a friend for a few days. He takes Lu Yu to kindergarten, then goes to visit Bai Yi.
• Bai Yi worries Shen Zeyu will judge his modest apartment, but Shen finds it warm and welcoming. The two bond over a video game, take a photo together, and cook and eat lunch.
• Bai Yi remembers his weekly visit to his grandmother, who is hospitalized with lung cancer. Shen offers to go with him, and his cheerful conversation and jokes lift her spirits.
• After the visit, Shen asks to stay at Bai Yi’s home for the next few days, and Bai Yi happily agrees. Shen discovers Lu Cizhou has changed the name in his phone to an embarrassing one, feels both irritated and guilty, and messages him that he’ll be away.
• Lu Cizhou tries to reply, but the message is rejected, leaving him confused.

Character developments and interactions

• Shen Zeyu is warm, sociable, and considerate: he puts Bai Yi at ease, shares everyday activities with him, and instinctively offers companionship during a difficult family visit. His avoidance of Lu Cizhou shows lingering embarrassment and emotional uncertainty.
• Bai Yi is initially self-conscious about his circumstances, but Shen’s acceptance helps him relax. He enjoys their time together and welcomes Shen into his home. His devotion to his ill grandmother is clear.
• Lu Cizhou is absent from most of the chapter but remains a source of tension. His teasing phone-contact change embarrasses Shen, while Shen’s sudden disappearance—and blocked reply—leaves him shut out.
• Grandma Bai is cheerful and welcoming despite her illness, and is delighted to see Bai Yi with a new friend.

Significant themes

• Friendship and belonging: Shared games, cooking, and conversation quickly make Bai Yi’s quiet home feel lively.
• Care and companionship: Shen supports Bai Yi and brings joy to his grandmother, while Bai Yi prioritizes family.
• Class differences and acceptance: Bai Yi fears judgment about his small apartment, but Shen values its warmth rather than its size.
• Avoidance and unresolved feelings: Shen’s retreat from Lu Cizhou contrasts with the ease he finds with Bai Yi; the contact-name joke exposes their teasing, complicated dynamic.

Key plot points and events

• Lu Cizhou discovers that Shen Zeyu has blocked him on WeChat and decides to wait for Shen to cool down. He learns Shen will be away for several days.
• Lu Yu calls Shen from Lu Cizhou’s phone. When Lu asks him to request that Shen unblock him, Lu Yu sides with Shen, saying his father must apologize first. He and Shen have a warm, playful conversation.
• Lu and Shen exchange messages about their dispute. Shen insists they are even over a contact name; Lu brings up Shen’s forced kiss, embarrassing Shen enough that he stops replying.
• At Bai Yi’s apartment, Shen praises Bai’s acting and reassures him about his stalled career. Bai receives an offer to work as a scene double and accepts, though he does not tell Shen why his mood has changed.
• Shen and Bai go for a walk. Shen is overwhelmed by the neighborhood’s matchmaking older residents, then a delivery worker appears with a huge bouquet of yellow roses addressed to him. The chapter ends with Shen wondering who sent it.

Character developments

• Lu Cizhou tries to manage the conflict by giving Shen space, but still wants contact and uses Lu Yu to ask for help. His teasing message shows he is willing to be shameless to get a reaction.
• Shen Zeyu remains angry and keeps Lu blocked, but is affectionate and playful with Lu Yu. He also shows warmth and encouragement toward Bai Yi.
• Lu Yu demonstrates that he understands the tension between his parents and chooses to protect Shen’s feelings rather than simply obey Lu.
• Bai Yi reveals his discouragement over limited acting opportunities and trouble with his agency. Despite this, he accepts a modest job, suggesting practical determination.

Significant themes

• Romantic tension and embarrassment: Lu and Shen’s argument mixes hurt feelings with flirtatious teasing.
• Family loyalty and emotional insight: Lu Yu recognizes that Shen is upset and tries not to make matters worse.
• Persistence amid setbacks: Bai continues pursuing work despite career and financial obstacles.
• Public attention and social pressure: Shen’s walk turns awkward when residents crowd him and speculate about his relationship status.

Character interactions

• Lu Yu mediates between Lu Cizhou and Shen Zeyu, though he ultimately supports Shen.
• Lu and Shen communicate through short, prickly messages, trading accusations about the contact name and the kiss.
• Shen praises Bai’s performance and offers encouragement; Bai shares some of his difficulties but keeps the new job offer to himself.
• The neighborhood residents enthusiastically question Shen about his love life, and the delivery worker’s arrival with the roses draws even more attention to him.

Plot points

• Lu Cizhou sends Shen Zeyu a huge bouquet of yellow roses as an apology, having assumed they symbolized remorse. Shen accepts them reluctantly, then sends them to the residential complex’s security office because he and Bai Yi have nowhere to keep them.
• Lu learns the flowers were more commonly associated with friendship and realizes the oversized bouquet may have embarrassed Shen. When the flowers are returned to him through the security office, he understands Shen was rejecting the gesture.
• Shen asks Bai Yi about his weekend work. Bai Yi evasively says he has a small role to film, prompting Shen to suspect something is wrong, though he doesn’t press him.
• At the studio, Bai Yi is being forced to repeat a cold-water scene as a stand-in while actor Li Wei watches. Li Wei is deliberately mistreating him out of resentment over a past director’s praise of Bai Yi.
• Shen rushes in and confronts Li Wei, shielding Bai Yi. Lu Cizhou, Mo Chen, and Lu Yu arrive amid the argument. Lu Yu wants to help his “Papa,” while Lu Cizhou assures him he is there.
• Shen takes Bai Yi aside to a quieter place and, after Bai Yi changes, angrily asks whether Bai Yi considers him a friend.

Character developments and interactions

• Lu Cizhou tries to make amends but misjudges the meaning and social impact of the flowers; he remains attentive to Shen and arrives at the studio with Lu Yu.
• Shen Zeyu is embarrassed and exasperated by Lu’s grand gesture, but shows fierce loyalty by intervening when Bai Yi is bullied. His final question suggests hurt that Bai Yi hid the truth from him.
• Bai Yi is hesitant and secretive about his work, then endures Li Wei’s abuse without protest. Shen’s intervention leaves him startled.
• Li Wei uses his influence as an investor and his resentment of Bai Yi’s talent to make the younger man suffer.
• Lu Yu openly sees Shen as his Papa and trusts Lu Cizhou to protect him; Mo Chen’s “brother-in-law” greeting hints at Shen’s close connection to Lu’s family.

Significant themes

• Miscommunication and reconciliation: Lu’s well-meant apology goes awry because he misunderstands the flowers’ meaning.
• Friendship and trust: Shen’s protection of Bai Yi is matched by frustration that Bai Yi concealed his situation.
• Abuse of power and retaliation: Li Wei exploits his status to punish someone he envies.
• Chosen family and loyalty: The characters’ protective bonds emerge clearly, especially Shen’s defense of Bai Yi and Lu Yu’s affection for Shen.

Plot points and events

• Shen Zeyu confronts Bai Yi after discovering that Bai Yi took the production job partly because he needed money and had been working as a stand-in. He is hurt that Bai Yi concealed both the reason for taking the job and the strain of staying at Shen’s home.
• Their argument reveals a deeper disagreement: Shen wants to help financially, while Bai Yi fears that borrowing a large amount would burden him and change their friendship. Bai Yi insists on earning the money himself; Shen admits he has not understood Bai Yi’s circumstances well enough.
• After bringing Bai Yi inside, Shen has Lu Cizhou’s people prevent anyone from leaving the set. Lu Cizhou’s presence frightens Li Wei’s backer, who promptly ends their arrangement.
• Li Wei apologizes to Bai Yi. Bai Yi asks him to endure the same treatment he inflicted—repeatedly jumping into the water—and accepts his apology afterward. Shen then adds his own condition: Li Wei must leave the production and stay away from Bai Yi.
• Shen leaves with Lu Cizhou and Lu Yu. Bai Yi tries to stop him, but Shen says they should take time to calm down. Bai Yi fears this means their friendship is over, while Shen leaves despite being upset himself.

Character developments

• Bai Yi shows how fiercely he values independence and how deeply money and indebtedness affect his sense of dignity. He wants Shen’s friendship, but struggles to accept help without fearing it will create an unequal relationship.
• Shen Zeyu realizes that his financial security has made him forget what it is like to struggle for money. Though he wants to protect Bai Yi, he recognizes that good intentions alone do not mean he understands him.
• Li Wei loses his confidence when his powerful backing abandons him. He complies with the punishment and demands, though his relief suggests he still underestimates the consequences of crossing Bai Yi.
• Lu Cizhou acts decisively to secure the set and support Shen, while Mo Chen observes the confrontation and offers to take Bai Yi home.

Significant themes

• Friendship, trust, and boundaries: Shen sees financial help as natural between friends; Bai Yi worries it would create a lasting debt and widen the gap between them.
• Pride and self-reliance: Bai Yi’s refusal is not a lack of trust so much as difficulty overcoming his pride and preserving his independence.
• Power and accountability: Li Wei’s arrogance collapses when his connections fail him, and he is made to face a version of the treatment he inflicted.
• Misunderstanding despite care: Shen and Bai Yi both value the friendship, but their differing assumptions make reassurance difficult.

Character interactions

• Shen and Bai Yi’s confrontation moves from anger to an honest discussion of money, trust, and friendship, but ends unresolved.
• Lu Cizhou’s intervention intimidates Li Wei and strips away his sense of protection; Bai Yi and Shen then impose separate consequences.
• At the end, Bai Yi reaches for Shen, but Shen chooses temporary distance, leaving Bai Yi afraid their bond may be ending.

Key plot points and events

• After their argument, Shen Zeyu tells Bai Yi he never meant to hide the truth. Bai Yi recognizes that he may have been an obstacle, and suggests they both take time to consider each other’s perspective before talking again. Shen leaves feeling guilty.
• On the way home, Lu Yu tries to cheer Shen up. Lu Cizhou remains quiet, wanting to comfort him but holding back because the child is present.
• The next morning, Lu Cizhou lets Shen sleep in and takes him on a surprise outing to a riding center. Shen is delighted but admits he has never ridden before, so Lu offers to teach him.
• Shen chooses a striking white horse despite the staff’s warning that it is difficult to ride. The horse accepts his touch and even nuzzles him.
• Shen struggles to mount the horse. Lu Cizhou laughs, then helps him up and leads the horse around so Shen can get used to riding.

Character developments

• Shen Zeyu feels responsible for hurting Bai Yi but respects their agreement to pause before discussing the conflict again. The riding lesson gives him a welcome moment of excitement and distraction.
• Bai Yi shows that he wants their friendship to be mutual rather than placing himself beneath Shen.
• Lu Cizhou quietly tries to support Shen, arranging the outing and carefully guiding him. His concern is mixed with growing attraction, which he keeps to himself.
• Lu Yu is affectionate and eager to comfort Shen, though he does not yet understand the adults’ situation.

Significant themes

• Communication and mutual respect: Shen and Bai Yi agree to reflect on each other’s perspectives before speaking again.
• Care expressed through actions: Lu Cizhou offers support through patience and a thoughtful outing rather than direct emotional conversation.
• New experiences and trust: Shen’s first ride depends on trusting Lu Cizhou’s instruction and the horse’s calm response.

Character interactions

• Shen and Bai Yi part on reflective, not hostile, terms.
• Lu Yu offers Shen playful comfort, while Lu Cizhou silently supports them both.
• Lu Cizhou teaches Shen with gentle reassurance; their teasing and close physical contact during the mounting attempt hint at Lu Cizhou’s attraction, though Shen remains focused on riding.

Key plot points

• Shen Zeyu learns to mount, steer, and ride a horse under Lu Cizhou’s patient guidance. He starts nervously but soon manages a short run on his own.
• Lu Cizhou’s rival, Zhuang Xuan, arrives and insists on a race. Lu agrees after realizing Shen wants to watch.
• Zhuang Xuan tries to warn Shen about Lu, but Shen is more overwhelmed by his nonstop talking. Lu returns in riding gear, impressing Shen.
• Lu and Zhuang race neck and neck until Shen cheers for Lu. Energized by the support, Lu pulls ahead and wins.
• In his excitement, Shen runs into Lu’s arms. Zhuang notices their closeness and asks if Shen is Lu’s boyfriend; neither denies it.
• Lu then invites Shen to ride with him. He pulls Shen into the saddle and guides the horse at speed, leaving Shen thrilled by the ride—and flustered by their closeness.

Character developments

• Shen Zeyu grows more confident as a beginner rider and openly supports Lu during the race. His excitement and attraction become increasingly apparent, though he remains embarrassed by Lu’s intimate gestures.
• Lu Cizhou is patient and attentive while teaching Shen, but also shows affection through small touches, praise, and the way he responds to Shen’s cheering. His skilled, confident riding impresses Shen.
• Zhuang Xuan is established as Lu’s competitive, repeatedly defeated rival. Beneath his bravado, he is envious of Lu’s success and relationship.

Significant themes

• Growing intimacy: Riding lessons and the shared ride create opportunities for physical closeness and unspoken romantic tension.
• Encouragement and connection: Shen’s support visibly motivates Lu, while Lu’s guidance helps Shen gain confidence.
• Rivalry and admiration: Zhuang’s habitual challenges contrast with the affection and trust developing between Lu and Shen.

Character interactions

• Lu carefully teaches Shen, briefly touching his waist to correct his posture; the moment makes them both pause before Lu breaks the tension with a teasingly practical remark.
• Zhuang challenges Lu and tries to turn Shen against him, but Shen ends up cheering enthusiastically for Lu.
• Shen’s spontaneous embrace after the victory prompts Zhuang to recognize their relationship.
• Lu and Shen finish with a close, exhilarating ride together, culminating in Lu asking softly whether Shen enjoyed it.

Key plot points and events

• Lu Cizhou takes Shen Zeyu horseback riding to lift his spirits after their recent disagreement. Shen appreciates the gesture, and they talk about trying to understand each other’s different experiences.
• Shen takes photos to mark his first horseback ride and prepares to post them. Lu Cizhou uses the moment to ask Shen to unblock him on WeChat; Shen admits he had forgotten and agrees.
• At home, they discover Lu Yu is upset that they went out without him. Shen deflects blame onto Lu Cizhou, who apologizes and promises to take Lu Yu to an amusement park with Shen next time. Lu Yu quickly forgives them.
• Lu Cizhou browses Shen’s Moments and sees that most of Shen’s older posts feature Bai Yi. He becomes jealous, especially because Shen has cooked for Bai Yi but not for him.
• At dinner, Lu Cizhou sulks and leaves early. Shen notices his mood but misunderstands its cause. Later, Shen checks on him in the study, but Lu Cizhou denies anything is wrong.
• Lu Cizhou briefly considers sleeping elsewhere, then reflects that his jealousy is unreasonable. He returns to their room and quietly gets into bed beside the sleeping Shen.

Character developments

• Lu Cizhou shows care by taking Shen out and later reassures Lu Yu, but his discovery of Shen’s posts brings out insecurity and jealousy. He struggles to express those feelings directly and ultimately recognizes that they may be unfair.
• Shen Zeyu is touched by Lu Cizhou’s thoughtfulness and becomes more comfortable sharing affectionate moments with him. He remains oblivious to the real reason for Lu Cizhou’s sulking.
• Lu Yu acts like a sensitive, affectionate child: he feels excluded, but readily forgives his parents when promised a family outing.

Significant themes

• Communication and misunderstanding: Lu Cizhou hides his jealousy, while Shen misreads his behavior; their unspoken feelings prolong the tension.
• Empathy and differing experiences: Lu and Shen acknowledge that their backgrounds shape how they see things and that understanding requires perspective-taking.
• Insecurity and affection: Lu’s jealousy stems from wanting closeness and recognition, but he questions whether those feelings are justified.
• Family inclusion: Lu Yu’s hurt highlights the importance of making shared experiences inclusive.

Character interactions

• Lu encourages Shen during the ride, and their teasing over photos and WeChat reflects growing ease between them.
• Shen and Lu Yu reconcile warmly, while Lu Cizhou accepts the blame and offers a future outing.
• Lu Cizhou’s jealousy surfaces indirectly in his sulking at dinner and his guarded exchange with Shen in the study; Shen’s attempt to check on him is caring, even though he does not uncover the cause.

Key plot points and events

• Shen Zeyu cooks four dishes and soup for Lu Cizhou to thank him for taking him horseback riding, then brings lunch to Lu’s office.
• Lu questions Shen about a claimed restaurant job where he learned to cook. Shen dodges the subject, privately realizing he nearly revealed something about his “old life.” Lu suspects Shen is concealing something important.
• After lunch, Lu tells Shen not to lie down immediately, so Shen walks around the office before resting in the lounge.
• Shen messages Bai Yi. They resolve their earlier disagreement: Bai admits he has reconsidered relying on his friends, and Shen reassures him that they are still friends and promises to visit when Bai joins a production.
• Shen wakes late in the afternoon and learns Lu is in a meeting. He plans to wait at a bubble tea shop downstairs until Lu finishes work.
• After Shen leaves, Lu rereads the background investigation report on him, ending the chapter with Lu’s reaction left unclear.

Character developments

• Shen Zeyu shows affection through cooking and takes the initiative to repair his friendship with Bai Yi. He remains guarded about his past.
• Lu Cizhou is pleased by Shen’s visit and attentive to his comfort, but his suspicions about Shen’s background deepen.
• Bai Yi accepts that he can lean on friends rather than hide his struggles, and becomes more secure in his friendship with Shen. He also receives the opportunity to play Li Wei.

Significant themes

• Friendship depends on honest communication, mutual consideration, and allowing others to offer support.
• Care is expressed through small acts—cooking, checking on someone’s health, and making time for them.
• Shen’s concealed past creates tension between growing closeness and lingering uncertainty.

Character interactions

• Shen and Lu share a warm meal, but Lu’s questions expose the gap between their trust and Shen’s secrecy.
• Shen and Bai reconcile through candid messages, reaffirm their friendship, and celebrate Bai’s career opportunity.
• Lu gives Shen space to rest and wait nearby, then turns back to the unresolved question of Shen’s history.

Plot points and events

• Shen Zeyu spends time at a milk tea shop near Lu Corporation, reflecting that his life has become comfortable and wondering about Lu Cizhou’s recent behavior.
• On his way to the company, he sees a thief fleeing with a woman’s wallet. Shen Zeyu chases and restrains him with help from a passerby; the police arrive and take the thief away.
• Shen Zeyu has twisted his ankle during the chase. Lu Cizhou notices him limping, carries him to the hospital despite his protests, and learns the injury is minor: no bone damage, just swelling.
• At home, Shen Zeyu agrees to let Lu Cizhou carry him on his back instead of bridal-style. Their closeness makes him feel safe.
• Lu Yu learns what happened, admires Shen Zeyu’s bravery, and eagerly helps care for him. That night, Lu Cizhou massages the ankle with medicinal liniment.

Character developments and interactions

• Shen Zeyu proves brave and compassionate by pursuing the thief, though he acts before considering the risk. He accepts Lu Cizhou’s concern and enjoys Lu Yu’s attentiveness, while remaining self-conscious about being carried in public.
• Lu Cizhou shows strong protectiveness: he insists on medical care, carries Shen Zeyu, and has learned how to treat the injury. His worry comes out as mild scolding.
• Lu Yu is affectionate and earnest, looking after Shen Zeyu at dinner and wanting to help even with tasks beyond his ability.
• Shen and Lu Cizhou share a tender, increasingly intimate moment during the carry home and ankle treatment. Meanwhile, Lu Corporation employees eagerly interpret the bridal carry as romantic.

Significant themes

• Courage balanced with caution: Shen’s good deed is admirable, but Lu Cizhou stresses that helping others should not mean ignoring personal safety.
• Care and family affection: Lu Cizhou’s practical concern and Lu Yu’s enthusiastic attention show how strongly Shen is cared for.
• Growing closeness and security: Shen’s comfort on Lu Cizhou’s back, along with their domestic tenderness, suggests deepening trust and attachment.

Key plot points and events

• Lu Cizhou applies ointment to Shen Zeyu’s injured foot. Shen cries out from the pain, while Lu becomes visibly flustered and makes an excuse for his own sweating.
• Shen enjoys several days of being cared for, but his foot soon heals. Lu invites him to a wealthy gathering, saying it will be good for him to meet people.
• Before the banquet, Lu compliments Shen’s white suit and helps him tie his tie. The close, tender moment leaves Shen flushed and wondering whether Lu was flirting.
• At the banquet, the two arrive together and attract attention. Lu introduces Shen as his “husband,” and guests’ awareness of their marriage alliance changes how they treat Shen.
• Shen’s father, hearing others praise his good fortune through his sons’ marriages, is overcome with regret—unaware that Shen has already severed ties with the family.

Character developments

• Shen Zeyu remains unsure how to interpret Lu’s attentiveness, but he responds to it with growing warmth and happiness. He is also curious about entering Lu’s social world.
• Lu Cizhou shows increasing affection and protectiveness. Though their feelings remain unspoken, he has privately decided Shen is the person he wants and uses the banquet to secure him greater respect.
• Shen’s father is left regretting his lost relationship with Shen, though the chapter does not show him reconciling with his son.

Significant themes

• Unspoken attraction: Careful gestures and physical closeness convey feelings neither man has openly clarified.
• Status and social recognition: Lu’s public introduction and presence influence how others treat Shen.
• Estrangement and regret: Shen’s father’s apparent good fortune contrasts with the family bond he has lost.

Character interactions

• Lu’s teasing discomfort during the ointment treatment gives way to attentive care, and Shen accepts his help with the tie despite feeling flustered.
• At the banquet, Lu presents himself and Shen as a couple, while Shen privately enjoys being called Lu’s husband.
• The guests praise Shen’s father for his sons’ advantageous marriages, unintentionally sharpening his regret over Shen’s estrangement.

Key events

• At a banquet, Shen Zeyu tires of being introduced to wealthy guests. Lu Cizhou tells him to rest and promises to find him later.
• Shen Zeyu’s father approaches, pretending they are still a family and claiming Zeyu should be grateful for the marriage alliance. Zeyu rejects him, points out that the Shen Family is seeking Lu Family support because the Chen Family has provided little help, and warns him not to use their relationship to pursue business.
• Searching for Lu Cizhou, Shen Zeyu overhears his younger brother Shen Mo trying to ingratiate himself with Lu. Shen Mo claims he and Lu were meant to marry, and that Zeyu took his place.
• Lu sees through Shen Mo’s act, says he is glad Zeyu married him, and sharply tells Shen Mo to stop using a fake, affected voice or calling him “Cizhou” as though they were close.
• Shen Zeyu can no longer suppress his laughter and reveals himself, joining Lu at Shen Mo’s side.

Character developments and interactions

• Shen Zeyu stands firm against his family, refusing to accept their guilt-tripping or let them exploit his marriage. He and Lu share an easy rapport; Lu’s blunt response to Shen Mo amuses him.
• Lu Cizhou is protective of Zeyu and openly recognizes that the Shen family mistreated him. His composure and biting humor expose Shen Mo’s manipulative performance.
• Shen Mo is driven by jealousy and regret, especially as his relationship with Chen Haoxuan falters. He tries to portray Zeyu as the selfish one, but Lu rejects his story.
• Shen Zeyu’s father regrets allowing Zeyu to take Shen Mo’s place, now that Lu has recovered. He approaches Zeyu for access to the Lu Family, but backs off when Zeyu threatens to expose their estrangement.

Significant themes

• Family betrayal and exploitation: The Shen family treats Zeyu less like a son than a means to secure wealth and status.
• Jealousy and regret: Shen Mo and his father envy the position Zeyu has gained through the marriage.
• Deception versus genuine loyalty: Shen Mo’s false innocence contrasts with Lu’s direct support for Zeyu.
• Growing partnership: Lu and Zeyu’s mutual trust is evident in Lu’s defense of him and Zeyu’s comfort beside him.

Key plot points and events

• Shen Mo tries to win Lu Cizhou’s sympathy after arguing with Shen Zeyu, but Lu Cizhou rejects his affected manner and threatens to expose what he knows about Shen Mo’s arranged marriage with the Chen Family.
• Shen Mo leaves after realizing Lu Cizhou will not help him. Shen Zeyu warns him not to cause trouble again, and Lu Cizhou promises to intervene if necessary.
• At home, Shen Zeyu tells Lu Cizhou that another member of the Shen Family had approached him. He says he can handle it for now, and asks Lu Cizhou not to help the Shen Family if they seek assistance.
• Shen Zeyu and Lu Cizhou decide to take Lu Yu to the amusement park as promised. The family enjoys trampolines and bumper cars, with Shen Zeyu and Lu Yu gleefully teaming up against Lu Cizhou.
• As Lu Cizhou goes to fetch water for them, an unidentified man approaches Shen Zeyu and Lu Yu, leaving the chapter on a cliffhanger.

Character developments and interactions

• Shen Zeyu remains composed and sharp in confronting Shen Mo, but shows a playful, affectionate side at home and at the amusement park. He is protective of Lu Cizhou’s resources and wary of the Shen Family’s motives.
• Lu Cizhou firmly backs Shen Zeyu, openly rejects Shen Mo’s manipulation, and agrees not to help the Shen Family. His loyalty is clear, though he privately considers using the Chen Family to pressure Shen Mo.
• Shen Mo is driven by jealousy and self-interest. When Lu Cizhou refuses to support him, he retreats rather than risk losing his connection to the Chen Family.
• Lu Yu is delighted by the planned outing, shows affection by massaging Shen Zeyu’s shoulders, and enthusiastically joins the amusement-park fun.
• Shen Zeyu and Lu Cizhou tease each other, while Shen Zeyu and Lu Yu bond through play. Lu Cizhou also takes care of them after their ride.

Significant themes

• Loyalty and protection: Lu Cizhou stands by Shen Zeyu and rejects Shen Mo’s attempt to manipulate him.
• Family conflict and self-interest: Shen Mo’s behavior reflects the rivalry and transactional relationships surrounding the Shen and Chen Families.
• Domestic warmth: The amusement-park outing offers a contrast to the earlier confrontation, highlighting the affectionate family life shared by Shen Zeyu, Lu Cizhou, and Lu Yu.

Plot points

• At an amusement park, talent-company director Wang Lei invites Shen Zeyu and Lu Yu to join the variety show Go, Little Ones! The original celebrity guests have dropped out, and Wang Lei offers payment.
• Shen initially declines, but Lu Yu is excited about meeting other children and earning money. Shen agrees to discuss it at home before deciding.
• The family enjoys more rides and photo-booth pictures. Shen sneaks away to eat ice cream, misleading Lu Yu by saying he needs the bathroom. Lu Cizhou quietly helps by keeping Lu Yu occupied.
• Lu Yu eventually finds Shen eating his third ice cream bar and feels betrayed. Shen apologizes and promises to buy him one too; Lu Yu forgives him.
• At dinner, Shen tells Lu Cizhou about the show. Lu Cizhou is open to it, but Shen is reluctant despite Lu Yu’s enthusiasm.
• Shen develops severe stomach pain and spends a long time in the bathroom. When Lu Cizhou asks how many ice creams he ate, Shen admits it was three.

Character developments and interactions

• Shen Zeyu is cautious about the show and reluctant to give up a restful holiday, but his affection for Lu Yu makes him reconsider. His playful, impulsive side emerges when he sneaks off for ice cream—and his overeating catches up with him.
• Lu Yu is eager to make friends and participate in the show. He is perceptive enough to see through Shen’s excuse, openly voices his hurt, and ultimately accepts Shen’s apology.
• Lu Cizhou acts as a calm, supportive co-parent. He helps Shen conceal the ice-cream break, reassures Lu Yu, and leaves the show decision to Shen and Lu Yu while planning to check the company’s credentials.

Significant themes

• Family trust and affection: Shen’s small deception hurts Lu Yu, but an honest apology and reassurance repair the moment.
• Balancing adults’ preferences with a child’s wishes: Shen’s desire for a quiet holiday conflicts with Lu Yu’s excitement about the show.
• Humor in family life: The ice-cream deception, Lu Yu’s accidental defense of Lu Cizhou, and Shen’s eventual stomachache provide light comic moments.

Key plot points and events

• After Shen Zeyu eats three ice creams and feels unwell, Lu Yu scolds him and makes him promise not to sneak more. Shen Zeyu is embarrassed and wonders whether his family really considers him so unreliable.
• Eager to support Lu Yu’s wish to join a variety show, Lu Cizhou checks the production and invests through the Lu Corporation, on the condition that he won’t interfere with the show’s format.
• Shen Zeyu confirms with producer Wang Lei that filming will start the following weekend and arranges to sign the contract. Lu Yu is thrilled, though he doesn’t explain why he wants to participate so badly. Lu Cizhou says work will keep him away from the early episodes, but he may join later.
• Go, Little Cuties! premieres as a fully livestreamed parenting show. Viewers speculate about the guests, especially singer Chen Ran.
• At the Lu family villa, Lu Yu cheerfully greets the crew and livestream audience. Lu Cizhou stays off-camera, while Shen Zeyu is awakened for filming and appears on screen flustered but strikingly handsome. After breakfast, Shen Zeyu and Lu Yu leave for the filming location.
• The opening goes smoothly for them, but the chapter ends by hinting that filming at Chen Ran’s home is going less well.

Character developments and interactions

• Shen Zeyu’s impulsiveness prompts Lu Yu to take on a protective, almost parental role; Shen accepts the boy’s reprimand and promise-making with good humor.
• Lu Cizhou shows his support for Lu Yu while respecting the production team’s independence. He and Shen coordinate around the filming, though Cizhou expects to miss the first episodes.
• Lu Yu is excited and determined to join the show, but keeps his reasons to himself. He also acts confidently as the family’s young host when the crew arrives.
• Shen’s sleepy embarrassment contrasts with his composed appearance once he is awake, making an immediate impression on viewers.

Significant themes

• Family care and role reversal: Lu Yu watches over Shen, while both adults support and accommodate the child.
• Trust and responsibility: Shen’s ice-cream mishap raises the playful question of whether he can be trusted to look after himself.
• Public image and privacy: The livestream draws intense attention to the family, while Lu Cizhou deliberately remains unseen.
• Excitement and anticipation: The show’s launch builds viewer curiosity, especially around its celebrity guests and the mysterious family members.

Chapter summary: “Preparing for the competition”

Key events

• Before the families arrive, Chen Ran struggles to braid his four-year-old daughter Tiantian’s hair. The result is comically messy, but Tiantian gently says it will do; Chen Ran resolves to learn how to braid.
• The other parent-child pairs are introduced: popular actor Ge Qing brings his capable six-year-old brother Ge Zhou, while actress Zi Yiting arrives with her four-year-old daughter Feifei. Zi seems unfamiliar with her daughter’s preferences, and Feifei appears unhappy.
• Shen Zeyu and his son Lu Yu arrive first at the scenic village where the group will stay. They meet Ge Qing and Ge Zhou, then the other families arrive.
• The children begin getting acquainted. Lu Yu eagerly claims the title of “big brother” among the younger children, while Ge Zhou mostly listens.
• The director explains the lodging challenge: the families will compete for the right to choose among four houses, only one of which is fully equipped. Their first contest is a drawing-and-guessing game in which the children draw and parents guess. The chapter ends as Lu Yu prepares to draw for Shen Zeyu.

Character developments and interactions

• Chen Ran’s helplessness with Tiantian’s hair is balanced by her affection and patience; his embarrassment turns into a determination to improve.
• Ge Qing is outgoing and immediately treats Shen Zeyu like an old friend, while Ge Zhou is reserved and often seems to manage his exuberant older brother.
• Lu Yu is curious and sociable. He compliments Ge Zhou, then peppers him with questions, leaving the older boy overwhelmed. He is also delighted when the younger children call him “big brother.”
• Shen Zeyu and Lu Yu show mutual trust as they prepare for the game: Lu Yu confidently promises to handle the drawing, and Shen Zeyu encourages him.
• Zi Yiting’s difficulty understanding Feifei’s tastes hints at distance between mother and daughter.

Significant themes

• Parent-child affection and caregiving: The children’s reactions reveal both warmth and gaps in parental attentiveness.
• Different family dynamics: The chapter contrasts Chen Ran’s earnest but inexperienced care, Ge Qing and Ge Zhou’s playful role reversal, and Zi Yiting’s apparent distance from Feifei.
• Competition and cooperation: The house-ranking game sets up a contest, but each family must rely on teamwork between parent and child.
• Humor and social observation: The braid, Ge Qing’s nonstop friendliness, and Lu Yu’s persistent questioning create lighthearted moments, often echoed by amused livestream viewers.

Plot points and events

• In the “Draw and Guess” game, Shen Zeyu and Lu Yu answer all ten questions correctly, mostly because Zeyu knows Lu Yu’s love of Ultraman.
• Ge Qing and Ge Zhou score five. Zhouzhou draws books repeatedly, revealing just how much he loves reading—including books he does not yet fully understand.
• Chen Ran and Tiantian score seven: her drawings of hairstyles and clothes are clear, and Chen has memorized braid styles during the trip.
• Zi Yiting and Feifei score four. Feifei is hurt that her mother struggles to guess her interests, but Zi apologizes and promises to be more present; Feifei gradually accepts her comfort.
• Scores determine the families’ houses. Shen Zeyu’s family gets the best, while some homes lack bathrooms and air conditioning. Lu Yu offers Zhouzhou a bathroom, then retreats when the director warns that borrowing one will cost double; Tiantian quietly drops a similar plan.
• After a shared lunch, the families learn they must provide meals for the rest of the day and the following day on a 100-yuan budget. They decide to earn food by helping local residents, supplementing it with groceries if possible.
• When the adults compare cooking skills, Zi can make salad, Chen can manage tomato-and-egg stir-fry, and Ge Qing cannot cook. Everyone turns to the still-silent Shen Zeyu.

Character developments and interactions

• Zeyu’s close attention to Lu Yu’s interests pays off, and the pair work smoothly as a team.
• Zhouzhou’s deep, independent love of reading surprises Ge Qing, who praises his younger brother despite being teased in Zhouzhou’s thoughts.
• Chen’s quick preparation helps him support Tiantian, while Tiantian’s confidence and artistic skill shine.
• Zi recognizes that work has kept her from understanding Feifei and makes a sincere promise to change. Their affectionate reconciliation softens Feifei’s disappointment.
• The families begin bonding through shared complaints about their accommodations and the practical challenge of arranging meals. Their different abilities set up the next group problem: finding someone who can cook.

Significant themes

• Parental attentiveness: Knowing a child’s interests reflects time spent together; the game exposes gaps as well as strengths.
• Children’s individuality: The children reveal distinct passions, from Ultraman and books to fashion and braids.
• Repair and reassurance: Zi’s apology and Feifei’s response show that honest affection can begin to mend distance.
• Cooperation under constraints: The families must pool effort and adapt to limited money, transport, housing, and cooking skills.