Episode Summary
Song Cong decides to transfer from the international class to a regular class, causing major conflict with his mother, Hao Mei, who has always envisioned him studying abroad. Despite the tension, Song Cong stands firm in his decision, wanting a more normal life and expressing interest in studying medicine. With support from Jing Qichi and Chen Huan'er, and after a confrontation between Hao Mei and Li Tian's mother, Song Cong successfully transfers. Jing Qichi continues to pursue his soccer dreams despite his mother's concerns, and Chen Huan'er begins to explore her own interests. The episode ends with the preparations for the school sports meet.
Spoiler Alert
The episode dives deep into Song Cong's internal conflict and his strained relationship with his mother, Hao Mei. Song Cong feels stifled in the prestigious international class, realizing he's unhappy despite the opportunities it offers. He confides in Chen Huan'er, whose words seem to have a significant impact on him. Jing Qichi, meanwhile, notices Song Cong's unusual attentiveness to Huan'er. Jing Qichi's father, Jing Liqiang, discovers his son's secret late-night soccer practices but isn't opposed, though he views soccer as a mere hobby. This frustrates Jing Qichi, who reminds his father of the effort they put into finding him a coach.
Song Cong's homeroom teacher is baffled by his desire to transfer out of the international class, a coveted spot many students would kill for. The tension at Song Cong's home escalates when his parents learn about his transfer request. Hao Mei is furious, believing they've planned his future around studying abroad. Song Hang tries to defend Song Cong, but Hao Mei's temper flares. Song Cong explains that their family isn't wealthy, and he doesn't want them to struggle for his sake. He believes he can succeed academically in China and doesn't want to be a burden. Hao Mei is heartbroken, explaining that her strictness stems from her own difficult past; she wants a smoother path for her son. Song Cong, in a moment of raw honesty, tells her he wants a normal life, expressing envy for Jing Qichi's freedom and implying that his mother's controlling nature is similar to Li Tian's mom.
Song Cong shares his decision to transfer and his aspiration to study medicine with Jing Qichi and Chen Huan'er. Jing Qichi is initially shocked, knowing Song Cong's parents disapprove of a medical career, but he quickly supports his friend's choice. Jing Qichi attempts to mediate with Song Hang, but the conversation backfires, and he ends up getting sent for medical scans.
Chen Huan'er visits Song Cong, offering support and gently advising him to reconcile with his parents. During her visit, Song Cong receives a call from Lin Yifan, and he expertly covers for Jing Qichi's whereabouts. Lin Yifan expresses strong opposition to Jing Qichi's professional soccer aspirations, citing the hardships and his previous injury. However, Song Cong recognizes that Jing Qichi is the most clear-headed about his dreams. Chen Huan'er finds herself admiring their passion and is encouraged by Song Cong to pursue her own interests.
A turning point arrives when Hao Mei vents to Lin Yifan and Qian Lina at the hospital. Li Tian's mother arrives, taunting Hao Mei. This confrontation pushes Hao Mei to finally accept Song Cong's decision, allowing Song Hang to inform the teacher and paving the way for Song Cong's transfer. Chen Huan'er is thrilled to hear the news and starts thinking seriously about her own hobbies. She also starts seeing Jing Qichi in a new light, realizing he's not as frivolous as he seems.
The episode concludes with a reflection on firsts: first decisions, first crushes, first acts of rebellion, and first steps toward understanding. Parents realize they can't stop their children from forging their own paths. Song Cong officially joins Class Five, becoming Jing Qichi's deskmate, seated behind Chen Huan'er and Qi Qi. With the school sports meet approaching, Jing Qichi, the class sports representative, desperately tries to recruit participants, even clashing with the sports rep from Class Six. He relentlessly pesters Chen Huan'er to run the 1500-meter race.
The episode's final scene shows Song Hang delivering Jing Qichi's medical report, which prompts Lin Yifan to firmly oppose Jing Qichi's soccer playing. Chen Huan'er overhears this, sparking concern for her friend.
