Episode 22 recap: Letting Go to Become a Postpartum Doula
In this episode, Shen Lin happens to pass by a domestic services center and, feeling curious, decides to step inside to inquire about job opportunities. The receptionist is surprised to see her, possibly thinking Shen Lin doesn’t look like someone genuinely seeking work. Quick on her feet, Shen Lin makes up a story about a relative wanting to work in Beijing, saying she’s just gathering information.
The manager of the center is very welcoming and gives Shen Lin detailed information about postpartum doula training, including costs and schedules. She mentions that upon completion, participants can earn a nationally recognized certification, which sounds promising to Shen Lin. She feels a rush of excitement, especially when the manager notes that employers prefer high-educated candidates with white-collar experience for these roles, making her even more interested.
However, when Shen Lin visits the early education center recommended by Jiang Shan, she realizes it’s not what she expected. The job requires two people to dress as mascots outside to attract customers, lacking any real marketing strategy. Jiang Shan feels embarrassed, saying his friend didn’t mention these details, but Na Wei isn’t upset and Li Xiao Yue suggests they should just start working to get the studio going.
At the same time, Na Juan’s company welcomes a group of new, energetic colleagues who are much more motivated than the older employees. Unfortunately, during this hectic period, Hao Ran collapses from exhaustion due to late-night work. Na Juan, feeling anxious and overwhelmed, goes to the restroom to wipe away her tears.
Shen Lin feels equally conflicted and decides to write an article to gauge Na Wei’s opinion on the postpartum doula profession. Na Wei quickly understands what Shen Lin is hinting at and learns that she has quit her job to pursue being a doula. He is upset, feeling that despite his struggles, he’s doing it for their family, and he wonders why Shen Lin would choose such a service-oriented job.
Nevertheless, Shen Lin is resolute and visits various agencies the next day to inquire about doula training. After comparing options, she still feels the original domestic services center is the most reliable. Na Wei, though feeling frustrated, has no choice but to continue his low-paying job.
Li Xiao Yue, on the other hand, has a more open-minded perspective. She mentions that there are plenty of ways to earn money these days, and that women doing domestic work or being doulas is nothing to be ashamed of. This resonates with Na Wei, who asks Li Xiao Yue if he would feel embarrassed if he became a doula himself. She responds that as long as it pays, what does pride matter?
Shen Lin returns to the domestic services center and clearly expresses her desire to become a doula. The manager warns her about a non-refundable clause in the contract, but Shen Lin decides to take the plunge. Later that night, she sees Na Wei dressed in a frog mascot costume, which stirs a mix of pain and empathy in her. She thinks if Na Wei can lower himself for their family, she shouldn't have any reservations.
Thus, Shen Lin officially begins her doula training, studying diligently and noting every mistake to ensure she doesn’t miss anything. Meanwhile, Na Wei receives a call from CEO Qi about organizing an opening ceremony, and he quickly agrees, asking Li Xiao Yue to book a private room.
Na Juan wants to stay late to finish work but is forced by CEO Lu to go home and rest. After all, health is crucial for productivity, and he knows that continuing to push himself will lead to problems.
On the way home from dinner, Li Xiao Yue is deep in thought about work and plans to brainstorm more ideas. Unexpectedly, Na Juan’s phone rings all night, but he doesn’t hear it. Li Xiao Yue, unable to get through, resorts to texting him, and it’s only then that Na Juan realizes he has temporarily lost his hearing. In that moment, he feels completely stunned…
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