Episode 24 recap: Lao Chen Guides Zhi in Writing
In Episode 24, Zou Jie proactively offers to give his mother fifteen yuan for food expenses, and she happily agrees, while Zhi remains silent. The next day at work, Zhi deliberately avoids the meals at home; the thought of her mother possibly bringing up money again makes her uncomfortable. To Zhi, it seems they spend a lot on groceries, yet it never meets her mother’s expectations.
Seeing this, Zou Jie encourages her, saying that since she has already paid for the meals, it would be a loss not to eat. Reluctantly, Zhi goes home to have dinner.
Zhi visits Lao Chen to pick up the re-shot photos. Due to a change in angle, she appears particularly strong in the pictures, and Lao Chen praises them enthusiastically. Zhi proudly asserts that she is indeed strong.
During their conversation, Zhi casually mentions Lao Chen’s experience at the newspaper and inquires about someone named Cong. Lao Chen pretends not to know, but in reality, he is aware that he is the "Cong" she refers to and that he has a past connection with Zhi’s mother, Xian.
Lao Chen encourages Zhi to try writing, believing it could be a turning point in her life, and enthusiastically recommends several books to her. Touched by his support, Zhi begins to communicate with him more frequently. In a deeper conversation, she reveals her close relationship with her mother and that the Hongqi Photo Studio used to be their home. After hearing this, Lao Chen is filled with mixed emotions; realizing that Zhi is indeed Xian’s daughter, he excuses himself, needing some time alone.
As Lao Chen sits there, memories of his time with Xian replay in his mind, causing tears to flow. Those beautiful memories have now turned into an indescribable pain in his heart. Soon after, he returns to the photo studio, gazing at the familiar window as if he can see Xian waving at him.
After leaving Lao Chen, Zhi has a nagging feeling that Lao Chen might know about her father and longs to confirm it with him. Not long after, she brings her written piece to Lao Chen, hoping for his guidance.
Lao Chen acknowledges Zhi’s progress but also points out areas for improvement, offering valuable advice. At that moment, Tie Dan’s mother arrives at the shop, briefly chatting with Zhi before mentioning her concerns about marriage to Lao Chen. She expresses her son’s strong opposition, feeling that her remarriage would betray his late father.
Tie Dan’s mother’s helplessness weighs heavily on Lao Chen as well. Zhi plans to read during her free time but finds the light in her room insufficient, so she lights a lamp. However, this is met with disapproval from Zou’s mother, who believes it’s a waste of electricity. Although Zhi feels frustrated, she has to comply. Zou Jie, upon learning this, comforts Zhi, telling her not to worry too much, but Zhi’s inner turmoil and dissatisfaction are hard to hide.
Late at night, Zhi lies in bed, feeling a heavy weight on her chest that keeps her from sleeping. She looks at the sleeping Zou Jie, experiencing a mix of emotions. Meanwhile, Xian continues to seek opportunities to steal the letter meant for Bai Meng from Wang Da Ma but has yet to succeed. The issues at Tie Dan’s home also leave Lao Chen and Tie Dan’s mother deeply troubled.
Finally, Zhi’s hard work pays off as her article is published in the newspaper. This achievement not only fills her with pride but also makes Zou Jie’s parents proud. The union’s chairman even personally sends someone to invite Zhi to join, but the workshop director refuses, stating that Zhi is a valuable asset to the team and should not be let go easily.
This experience strengthens Zhi’s resolve to pursue her path forward.
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