Episode 8 recap: Qu Zheng Confronts the Millionaire Lady

In this episode, Su Zhuo Zhuo gathers her courage to confess her feelings to Qu Zheng. She bluntly points out that the millionaire has ulterior motives regarding Qu Zheng and asserts that the millionaire is unworthy of him, listing all of her faults. Unbeknownst to them, the millionaire is listening in and finally can't hold back any longer, rushing out to defend herself.

After her defense, the millionaire tries to leave, but Qu Zheng instinctively wants to follow her. Su Zhuo Zhuo tries to intervene, reminding them that their engagement is just an act, but Qu Zheng responds, "So what if it's fake?" and rushes after the millionaire.

The millionaire is furious and, upon Qu Zheng's return, questions why he didn’t comfort Su Zhuo Zhuo. Qu Zheng, aware of the jealousy behind her words, playfully asks if she has special feelings for him. Though the millionaire stubbornly denies it, her affectionate gaze betrays her, and Qu Zheng understands the unspoken tension between them. Just as the atmosphere grows more delicate, they receive news that a young lady is returning home, prompting the millionaire to seize the chance to escape. Qu Zheng watches her leave, his emotions a mix of confusion and longing.

Meanwhile, Jin Mu Qiu is extremely anxious about meeting her future in-laws, especially since she hears that Lin Feng's mother is strict. She tries to find out what Lin Feng's mother likes, but they are caught off guard by the mother herself, leading to an awkward moment. Lin Feng quickly apologizes, and the three head to the main hall.

Lin Feng’s mother starts with pleasantries but quickly shifts to setting rules for Jin Mu Qiu, bringing in stacks of books that list family regulations, nearly bringing Jin Mu Qiu to tears. In private, she confides in her father, expressing her reluctance to marry, but while he sympathizes with her, he knows there's no turning back now.

At that moment, the millionaire bursts in, and the long-separated Jin Mu Qiu and the millionaire have much to catch up on. Qu Zheng and Jin Mu Qiu's father take their discussion about the marriage elsewhere. The millionaire discreetly reveals her feelings for Qu Zheng to Jin Mu Qiu, who has already sensed something was amiss.

As for Qu Zheng's feelings, the millionaire is also unsure. Without hesitation, Jin Mu Qiu insists on confronting Qu Zheng for clarification. Meanwhile, Qu Zheng is speaking with Jin Mu Qiu's father, claiming that the millionaire is hesitant about the marriage and asking for his support. Jin Mu Qiu's father readily agrees, unaware of the hidden motives at play.

Just as they step out, the millionaire and Jin Mu Qiu find themselves surrounded by a group of thugs seeking the Puyuan Scripture. At a critical moment, Qu Zheng arrives, using his status as the head of the Qinting Courtyard to protect the millionaire. After a tense standoff, he manages to defuse the situation.

Qu Zheng then leaves, entrusting his beloved guqin to the millionaire. Jin Mu Qiu observes this and concludes that Qu Zheng has feelings for the millionaire. She approaches Qu Zheng under the pretense of returning the guqin, but he acts coldly, saying he's still hurt by her earlier words and doesn't want to pressure her.

Feeling heartbroken, the millionaire isolates herself from Jin Mu Qiu. Lin Feng's mother approaches Jin Mu Qiu, appearing to offer help but actually applying pressure by asking her to organize a ladies' gathering and perform at the opening. This is a daunting task for the inexperienced Jin Mu Qiu. Meanwhile, the millionaire, who has developed feelings for Qing Yun, gifts him a high-quality servant token, hoping to protect him from further harm.

Thus, both characters continue navigating their lives amid their respective concerns and hopes.