Episode Summary
He Jiahuan struggles with her past relationship and her family's interference in her love life, while Liu Xiaoling's relationship with Tang Zhenmin causes further conflict. Family tensions rise, old grudges resurface, and the episode ends with He Jiahuan and Liu Meixin in a tearful confrontation.
Spoiler Alert
This episode of the family drama is packed with emotional turmoil, relationship struggles, and the ever-present weight of family history.
He Jiali, the wise and gentle eldest sister, has a heart-to-heart with her fourth sister, He Jiahuan. Jiali addresses Zhang Qiulin's past mistakes, emphasizing that Jiahuan shouldn't punish herself for someone else's wrongdoing. She encourages Jiahuan to live a better life than Qiulin, to forge her own path, and to remember that family and friendship are just as valuable as romantic love. Jiali believes Jiahuan is exceptional and deserves a fulfilling life, with or without a partner. She assures her that true love will eventually find its way.
Jiali then shares this conversation with their grandmother and mother, Liu Meixin. Liu Meixin knows her fourth daughter, Jiahuan, is stubborn, but hopes she can overcome her emotional struggles. Jiahuan, determined to start anew, quits her job at the farm, finds a respectable position, and even applies for a dormitory through her workplace. Meanwhile, Liu Xiaoling also decides to move out, upsetting Liu Meixin. He Wen, the grandmother, tries to smooth things over to keep the peace.
Liu's mother tries to set Jiahuan up on blind dates, but Jiahuan shows no interest, jokingly saying she'd rather spend her life with family or even the chickens and ducks. At the same time, Yan Hongyu bumps into He Jiaxi at the May First shopping mall. He Jiaxi, reaching for a bottle of wine on a high shelf, is steadied by Hongyu. It turns out he's the son of Wang Huaimin, a revelation that stirs something within Jiaxi.
The next morning, Jiahuan deliberately avoids Zhang Qiulin on her way to work, leaving him puzzled. The He sisters gather to celebrate the housewarming of their second sister's husband, Chen Weiguo. However, He Jiayi insensitively brings up Jiahuan's single status, creating an awkward atmosphere. Jiahuan excuses herself, feeling a mix of emotions.
After this, Jiahuan throws herself into her work, earning praise from her superiors. Her family eagerly awaits her return for dinner, but Liu Xiaoling unintentionally mentions Zhang Qiulin, upsetting Jiahuan again. The next day, Zhang Qiulin visits Jiahuan at work to apply for a loan, revealing that he's about to get married. Jiahuan maintains a calm exterior, but is deeply affected.
He Jiali informs He Jiahuan that Zhang Qiulin's wedding is imminent and that the entire He family has been invited. However, He Jiahuan insists on traveling to Guangzhou with Liu Xiaoling and others. In Guangzhou, she discovers Liu Xiaoling's close relationship with Tang Zhenmin; they've fallen in love. He Jiahuan feels increasingly despondent, her emotional world further shaken.
Back in their room, He Jiahuan confronts Liu Xiaoling, reminding her of the unresolved feud between the He and Tang families. However, Liu Xiaoling is determined to be with Tang Zhenmin. He Jiaxi suspects that He Jiahuan is interfering in Liu Xiaoling's relationship because of concerns about family property, a suspicion that Liu Xiaoling partly believes.
Liu Xiaoling's morning breakdancing routine disturbs He Jiahuan, leading to a heated argument. Liu Meixin rushes in to stop them, equally upset. He Wen notices the commotion and learns of the passing of Matriarch Tang. This news deeply affects both He Wen and Liu Meixin, making them reflect on the loss of those around them.
In early 1990, Ouyang Bao's business is booming, and his company is expanding. He Jiayi visits home with her servant, Liao Jie. He Wen and others joke that she's acting like a capitalist, ordering Liao Jie around. Zhang Jianguo installs a telephone at home, making it easier for the family to stay in touch.
Liu Meixin and He Jiali once again try to persuade He Jiahuan to settle down. He Jiahuan cleverly changes the subject, revealing Liu Xiaoling's relationship with Tang Zhenmin. The two elders talk to Liu Xiaoling, firmly stating that she can date anyone except someone from the Tang family. Liu Xiaoling's quick wit leaves Liu Meixin speechless and frustrated.
Soon after, Liu Xiaoling moves into a dormitory, leaving a note for her family. Liu Meixin is baffled as to why her children are getting involved with the Tang family. He Wen believes the old grudges should be forgotten and not affect the younger generation. He Jiahuan decides to move out, stating that she can no longer live in the house, leading to another argument with Liu Meixin. He Wen advises Liu Meixin to be more understanding, reminding her that if she (He Wen) were to pass away, Liu Meixin would be all alone in the large house. Liu Meixin breaks down in tears at these words.
