Episode 18 recap: Zhi and Zou Jie Plan to Secretly Get Married
In Episode 18, Zhi returns home only to be met with a harsh reprimand from her mother, Xian. Xian feels that Zhi’s actions have embarrassed her, believing she has treated Zhi well, while Zhi is eager to find a boyfriend. Xian views most men as unreliable. Zhi fights back, mentioning the judgment she faces from the outside world and questioning her father's identity.
Xian is left speechless and can only remain silent.
Meanwhile, at Zou Jie’s home, his parents lecture him about the “politics” of his relationship, firmly opposing his romance with Zhi. They believe Zhi will hinder Zou Jie’s future. However, Zou Jie is determined to be with Zhi, regardless of the obstacles.
Later that night, Zhi wakes to find her mother sitting by her bed, once again urging her to give up Zou Jie. Zhi is convinced that Zou Jie is a talented individual, but Xian worries that such a man is even less reliable. The two argue, and ultimately, Zhi stubbornly declares her intention to leave. Xian, heartbroken, laments that even a child picked up from the street wouldn’t be so ungrateful.
Zou Jie’s parents refuse to give up. They approach the director of Zou Jie’s factory, asking him to intervene and keep Zhi away from their son. The director speaks with Zhi, urging her to provide proof of her identity; otherwise, he must consider Zou Jie’s future and distance him from Zhi.
Facing overwhelming pressure, Zhi decides to break up with Zou Jie, not wanting to be a burden. However, Zou Jie resolutely insists they should face everything together, regardless of public opinion. Though Zhi is touched, she worries about how her presence might affect Zou Jie’s future. They share a heartfelt embrace, vowing to confront the challenges ahead together.
Xian is startled awake by Zhi’s crying and mistakenly believes they have broken up. She comforts Zhi, suggesting that a breakup might not be a bad thing. Seizing the moment, Zhi asks her mother to write down information about her father, which is crucial for her job and relationship. To secure this, Zhi even kneels before Xian.
Xian struggles internally as she looks at the pen and paper on the table.
At the factory, Zhi begins to deliberately avoid Zou Jie, but his persistence prevents him from giving up. Zou Jie’s mother considers finding him another match, but he firmly refuses, only wanting to be with Zhi. She grows increasingly dissatisfied with Zhi’s background, believing she, as the daughter of a capitalist, is unworthy of Zou Jie.
After much hesitation, Xian attempts to write about Zhi’s father, Meng Yu Nong, but struggles to put pen to paper, repeatedly writing and tearing it up.
Finally unable to bear Zhi’s avoidance, Zou Jie decides to publicly declare his feelings in the cafeteria. He stands bravely before the factory director and the staff, professing his love for Zhi and calling for a break from outdated norms to pursue true love. This bold gesture earns him applause and support from everyone, and the management no longer obstructs their relationship.
After work, Zhi shares the news with Zou Jie about her mother’s opposition, but his declaration gives her strength. They resolve to move forward together, never to part. Zou Jie returns home and mends his relationship with his family, even helping his younger sisters with their studies, much to his mother’s relief.
In the quiet of the night, Zhi and Zou Jie secretly take their household registration book. The next day, they obtain a letter of introduction from the factory and take wedding photos. Although they cannot complete the registration process immediately due to the absence of staff, their hearts are already intertwined. When Zou Jie accompanies Zhi home, he seizes the opportunity to sneak upstairs to meet her while Xian is out.
In their room, they cherish each other’s company until they catch a glimpse of Xian and hurriedly separate. Although startled, they are filled with anticipation and determination for their future together.
Comments(Episode 18)