Episode Summary
Shan Chong faces intense scrutiny from Wei Zhi's parents, who question his career choice and financial stability. The pressure highlights the differences in their backgrounds and leads Shan Chong to doubt his ability to provide for Wei Zhi, ultimately suggesting they take a break.
Spoiler Alert
This episode of "Ski into Love" is packed with family drama and relationship anxieties, as Wei Zhi brings Shan Chong home to meet the parents. It quickly becomes clear that Wei Zhi's mother has reservations about her daughter's relationship, setting the stage for some tense conversations.
Wei Zhi's mother, intending to assess Shan Chong, invites him and his sister, Shan Shan, for dinner. Wei Zhi is worried about her mother interfering, and her concerns prove to be valid. During the meal, the conversation turns to skiing, and Wei Zhi's mother is visibly shocked to learn that Shan Shan's leg injury was a result of the sport. She expresses her disapproval of women participating in such "dangerous" activities, questioning Shan Chong's ambition to join the national team. She believes that such pursuits are impulsive and unlikely to lead to financial security, pointing out that winning a gold medal is far from guaranteed, and no one can live a carefree life only because of winning a championship. Jiang Yiming tries to defend Wei Zhi and highlight the growing national support for skiing, but Wei Zhi's mother remains unconvinced.
The dinner is awkward, to say the least. Shan Chong remains quiet and respectful, while Wei Zhi feels apologetic for subjecting him to her mother's opinions. Afterward, Wei Zhi apologizes to Shan Chong, but he understands her mother's concerns about her daughter's future stability. However, the visit highlights the significant difference in their family backgrounds. Shan Chong comes from a middle-class family, while Wei Zhi's family owns a large business, and her parents have high expectations for her partner. Shan Shan also worries about her brother.
Wei Zhi's father, although more subtle, is also observing the couple. He invites Shan Chong to a private meal, where he directly addresses his concerns. He acknowledges Wei Zhi's passion for drawing comics, but he emphasizes that it's not a reliable career path. He also points out that being a ski instructor is a short-term profession, implying that Shan Chong lacks a stable job and income to ensure Wei Zhi's future happiness.
Shan Chong assures Wei Zhi's father that he's committed to proving himself. He plans to return to the national team for training after his sister gets her prosthetic limb, aiming to win medals and demonstrate his capabilities. While Wei Zhi's father nods, Shan Chong senses his underlying doubts.
Later, Shan Chong takes Wei Zhi for a walk, revealing his inner turmoil. He's starting to doubt his ability to provide the future Wei Zhi deserves, recognizing that striving for a gold medal is a gamble. He's torn because he deeply cares for Wei Zhi.
Wei Zhi, sensing his hesitation, embraces him and urges him not to forget their initial promises and shared dreams. She encourages him not to overthink the future, reminding him of her own perseverance in pursuing her passion for art despite her parents' objections. However, Wei Zhi's unwavering support ironically fuels Shan Chong's feelings of inadequacy. He apologizes and suggests they take some time apart, believing it might be better for both of them.
Heartbroken, Wei Zhi runs away in tears. Shan Chong is left feeling miserable, watching her go. Wei Zhi confides in her best friend, Jiang Yiming, who analyzes Shan Chong's current emotional state and advises giving each other some time.
