Episode 19 recap: He Zhi Nan and Gao Peng Break Up

In Episode 19, He Zhi Nan stands in front of Gao Peng’s house, gazing at a parrot named Qiao Qiao. She softly announces her upcoming departure, her bags already packed. She attempts several times to send Gao Peng a breakup message, carefully choosing her words but ultimately feeling dissatisfied, so she never hits send. Instead, she calls her friend Han Su to inform her of the impending farewell, mentioning that Sun Han Han will be waiting for her near the law firm.

Han Su, busy with work, cannot leave but promises to contact He Zhi Nan as soon as she returns to Jiangzhou. He Zhi Nan understands and notes that Sun Han Han is taking photos with Andy.

Later that evening, after finishing work, Han Su and Gao Peng go out for a break. Han Su brings up He Zhi Nan's departure and asks if Gao Peng plans to see her off. After a moment of silence, Gao Peng replies that perhaps they won’t see each other again. He likens their relationship to two squirrels reluctant to grow up, enjoying each other’s company but struggling to face the separation that comes with maturity. This metaphor leaves Han Su deep in thought.

The next morning, He Zhi Nan leaves a brief farewell text for Gao Peng before embarking on her journey. Unexpectedly, Gao Peng appears, and unable to contain her emotions, she rushes into his arms, tearfully announcing her decision to break up. Despite her pain, she insists that her proactive choice is a sign of maturity. Gao Peng, filled with regret, hears her comforting words that he shouldn’t feel sorry, and she turns to leave.

Gao Peng calls out to her but can only manage a simple “goodbye,” which causes He Zhi Nan’s tears to flow even more.

At the airport, He Zhi Nan leans on Sun Han Han’s shoulder and jokingly declares that she has “dumped a rich guy.” Sun Han Han responds with a warm hug, offering comfort.

While waiting for their flight, Sun Han Han gets absorbed in a science fiction novel—one of Andy’s favorites. Andy’s presence sparks lively conversation among the three until Zhou Bin’s arrival disrupts the harmony. Zhou Bin’s unwanted attention towards Sun Han Han creates an awkward situation, and although Andy is aware of the tension, he reluctantly steps back.

Ultimately, He Zhi Nan and Sun Han Han manage to shake off Zhou Bin’s advances and take a ride back home. Once there, they comfort each other with food and drinks. Sun Han Han resolves to start fresh, seeking a new job and place to live. However, the job hunt proves challenging, and she suspects Zhou Bin may be behind the obstacles.

Meanwhile, He Zhi Nan is avoiding reality; Han Su’s calls urge her to get back to work, but she prefers to spend this low point with Sun Han Han. When Gao Peng’s call reaches He Zhi Nan, it stirs her feelings, prompting her to travel to Kangding, the place where their love began, to bring closure to her seven-year relationship.

On the other hand, Gao Peng visits Han Su late at night, sharing the struggles he faced finding a Suzhou restaurant and revealing the truth about his breakup with He Zhi Nan. He also clarifies any misunderstandings regarding Emily. Although Han Su empathizes, she believes that these words should come directly from Gao Peng to He Zhi Nan.

In the wind of Kangding, He Zhi Nan quietly reflects on the past, turning her lingering feelings of loss and regret into hopes for the future. She understands that while love may be a thing of the past, life must go on, and she will seek her own happiness and growth on this new journey.