Episode 1 recap: Tang Yang's First Day on the Job

In the first episode, on the eve of their high school graduation, Tang Yang and Jiang Shi Yan gather with their classmates for a farewell dinner. As they reflect on their close-knit high school days, they can't help but feel nostalgic and bittersweet. They crack open some beers and share stories, celebrating their youthful camaraderie.

Fast forward eleven years to a morning when Tang Yang is still in bed, while Jiang Shi Yan, like a persistent alarm clock, is prodding her to wake up. Despite the years since graduation, their friendship remains strong. Tang Yang reminds Jiang Shi Yan to drive carefully since she plans to take some time to touch up her makeup.

This day marks Tang Yang's first day at a prestigious bank. While excited, she feels a mix of nerves and anxiety. Securing a position at such a well-known institution is a significant achievement, especially since the bank's leadership is particularly attentive to her as a new hire with a doctorate—some might say she's overqualified.

In contrast to Tang Yang's structured role, Jiang Shi Yan works in online streaming, where the pressure and workload are intense. She often organizes eating broadcasts but faces a challenge when disagreements arise within her team. Sheng Ni Na and Lu Ya clash over a planned product list when Lu Ya unexpectedly adds an item. Sheng Ni Na opposes her unilateral decision and turns to Jiang Shi Yan for help.

Lu Ya, who has a considerable fan base and a bit of a star attitude, usually gets special treatment. However, after assessing the situation, Jiang Shi Yan realizes the issue lies with Lu Ya. The added item lacks a food safety barcode, which could lead to significant compensation claims if fans report it.

After explaining the potential repercussions to Lu Ya, she remains unyielding, claiming numerous companies have expressed interest in her talents, but she has stayed loyal to her team. Frustrated with Lu Ya's defiance, Jiang Shi Yan decides to terminate her involvement, leaving Lu Ya stunned.

Meanwhile, on her first day, Tang Yang receives a text from Jiang Shi Yan inviting her to lunch with the team at a popular local restaurant. However, the department leader declines due to other commitments, leaving everyone hesitant to agree. As a result, Tang Yang ends up eating alone in the cafeteria.

At lunchtime, Jiang Shi Yan had plans to join a group for lunch but, upon learning that Tang Yang was dining alone, she claims to want to try the cafeteria food, insisting on joining her. Tang Yang reluctantly agrees and asks Jiang Shi Yan to grab her bag that she left in the car.

Feeling a bit down about her first day, Tang Yang is frustrated that her boss hasn’t assigned her an office yet, placing her at a desk near other employees instead. Fortunately, Jiang Shi Yan's attentive care lifts her spirits. She arrives with Tang Yang's bag and surprises her with a necklace she's been longing for, making Tang Yang extremely happy. She even asks Jiang Shi Yan to help her put it on, cherishing the moment.