Episode 5 recap: # Du Man Tang's Life is a Mess
In Episode 5, Du Man Tang feels down and meets with Fatty to vent his frustrations, questioning whether he’s completely useless. Fatty reassures him that while Wang Xiao Qing can be harsh with her words, she doesn’t mean any harm. Du Man Tang sighs, expressing his annoyance at Aunt Zhang constantly bringing up the need to fill in the cellar, wanting only to live a peaceful life.
Fatty shakes his head, pointing out that since Du Man Tang is in charge, he should show some authority; otherwise, Aunt Zhang will think he lacks weight. As they talk, the conversation shifts to the upcoming inspection team. Du Man Tang is uncertain whether it’s related to the demolition but suggests they wait and see. Fatty, however, remains optimistic, saying if there is a demolition, he can travel with Wang Xiao Qing and enjoy some quality time together.
Deciding to check out Old Ai's cellar, which Aunt Zhang has already mentioned needs to be filled, they find Old Ai is not pleased. He argues that digging a cellar isn’t a violation and brings up other illegal constructions in Beijing, pointing out that Fatty’s shop is also over the line. Du Man Tang understands that Old Ai is referring to Fatty but stays silent.
Old Ai then drags them to Fatty's shop, directly accusing him of illegal construction. Being straightforward, Fatty, wanting to avoid further conflict and not wanting to make things difficult for Du Man Tang, grabs a hammer and demolishes a corner of the shop. Seeing this, Old Ai panics and runs home. Du Man Tang and Aunt Zhang follow, hoping Old Ai will take care of the cellar issue, but Old Ai is too scared to even open the door.
At this moment, Wang Xiao Qing calls to say she has changed her ticket and is coming back early, asking what they will have for dinner. Du Man Tang replies that they can eat whatever, but Wang Xiao Qing insists on going out for a nice meal. After hanging up, she smiles at the tie she bought for Du Man Tang.
When Du Man Tang returns home, he feels guilty about Fatty's kindness and decides to give him some money, saying it’s a “top-up” for future meals. Fatty understands his intentions and accepts it in the end. Wang Xiao Qing comes home excited about going out to eat, but Du Man Tang has to confess that he gave the money to Fatty. Although Wang Xiao Qing doesn’t hold it against him, a small argument ensues over the price of the shirt and tie she bought for him. Just then, it starts to rain, and the house begins to leak. Du Man Tang rushes to fix it while asking Wang Xiao Qing to move the flowers; unfortunately, she slips and falls, ruining the gifts and, in a fit of anger, returns to her parents’ home.
Meanwhile, Old Ai seeks help from Zhang Ze Zhong regarding the cellar issue. Zhang Ze Zhong suggests using Old Ai's Manchu identity to protect the cellar. However, when they check, Old Ai’s ID indicates he is Han, leading to an awkward confrontation at the police station. To make matters worse, Old Ai’s father has passed away, and he blames Du Man Tang, claiming it’s his fault for forcing the cellar issue.
This series of events adds a touch of turmoil and helplessness to the lives in the alley.
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