Episode 40 recap: Completion of the Hip Axis Museum
In Episode 40, when Xiao Wang and the others heard that Ma Bo planned to raise the prices, they thought to themselves that the old man was being unreasonable, especially since everyone in the alley had more or less already signed contracts. After some discussion, they considered backing out, but Xiao Wang remembered the boss's words: they wouldn't take on any project without a budget of 50 million. Meanwhile, Zhang Ze Zhong claimed he wouldn't interfere, but he secretly kept an eye on Xiao Wang and the group under the pretext of registration.
As Xiao Wang was busy packing up to leave, Zhang Ze Zhong unexpectedly showed up, startling him into quickly welcoming him inside, trying to send him away before his intentions were revealed. However, Zhang insisted on taking a look inside. Upon entering, he saw the five of them standing stiffly like markers. In a moment of desperation, Xiao Wang had Xiao Li quickly offer Zhang a bottle of olive oil to ease the tension.
Zhang Ze Zhong deliberately bent down to pick something up and caught sight of a suitcase, which made him suspicious. He immediately went to find Du Man Tang, saying he was glad he was observant; otherwise, Xiao Wang and the others might have slipped away. Hearing this, Du Man Tang became anxious and grabbed a camera to keep watch all day.
Realizing the situation was getting worse, Xiao Wang and Xiao Li went to negotiate with Ma Bo, ultimately agreeing on a price of 50,000 a month. But Ma Bo's son objected, insisting on 60,000 a month. Xiao Wang thought it was too expensive, and Ma Da Ge straightforwardly suggested dropping the negotiation altogether, saying they shouldn't worry about Ma Bo's retirement.
Ma Bo quickly called Du Man Tang to complain about the price increase to 60,000. Upon hearing this, Du Man Tang firmly stated that they wouldn’t sign for anything less than 60,000. Just as he finished speaking, Xiao Wang and his group returned. Meanwhile, Du Man Tang received good news that the museum project had found a backer, a businessman who turned out to be Mr. Jiang, whose full name was Jiang Yifan. Du Man Tang privately joked with Wang Xiao Qing that Mr. Jiang had landed a wealthy partner, and just as he said this, Mr. Jiang arrived, creating an awkward moment.
Wang Xiao Qing quickly returned Mr. Jiang’s watch, and they made small talk. Du Man Tang invited Mr. Jiang to visit Beijing more often. That evening, Du Man Tang, Du Manyi, Zhang Ze Zhong, and Wang Xiao Qing enjoyed hotpot on the rooftop while keeping an eye on Xiao Wang and his group.
Xiao Wang sensed that Ma Bo was setting a trap, and considering Du Man Tang's behavior, he felt even more uneasy and decided to retreat immediately. However, as soon as they stepped outside, they were caught by Du Man Tang and his team. Du Man Tang demanded to know where they were going, and a girl casually replied that they were going home for a wedding. Du Man Tang was not about to let them go. Seeing this, Xiao Wang took out some bundles of cash to try to settle things privately, but Du Manyi reminded them that the police station was just behind them.
Both sides started to argue, leading to a physical confrontation. Xiao Wang instructed his companions to take the money and leave while he stayed behind to face the situation. Ultimately, the police arrived just in time to break up the conflict, and neighbors came out to see what was happening. It turned out that Director Shi had long set a trap with allied units, waiting for these scammers to take the bait.
Director Shi assured everyone that their property was safe. Although Du Man Tang and his team were injured and hospitalized, justice was served. Zhang Ze Zhong was interviewed again, while Wang Xiao Qing began to inquire about Du Man Tang's "marriage." It turned out to be a misunderstanding; the children merely wanted them to witness their wedding.
The Hip Axis Museum was completed with the funding from Su Hui Rong, revealing that she was the true investor, not Jiang Yifan. Su Hui Rong expressed that although life in the alley had its hardships and joys, it held her most precious memories. At the museum's opening ceremony, Du Man Tang gave an impassioned speech as the first director, inspiring everyone present.
Comments(Episode 40)