Episode 30 recap: Chen Qiao is Sent to Xining
In Episode 30, Zhi suddenly recalls that she hasn't seen Chen Qiao in a long time. A wave of inexplicable feelings stirs within her, prompting her to visit him. After some inquiries, she learns that Chen Qiao has moved into a humble little house. Upon seeing the rundown place, Chen Qiao appears oddly at ease, while Zhi feels a mix of emotions and confides in him about her divorce from Zou Jie.
Chen Qiao understands that this separation is for their respective futures, but he firmly believes that Zou Jie left out of necessity and still harbors deep feelings for Zhi. Before they part, Chen Qiao expresses concern for Xian and asks Zhi to reassure her that she can focus on her work without worrying about him. If Xian inquires about his situation, Zhi must hide the truth about his modest living conditions to spare her undue concern.
Meanwhile, Xian waits anxiously for Zhi's return, eagerly anticipating news about Chen Qiao. To avoid disappointing Xian, Zhi weaves a kind lie, telling her that Chen Qiao is doing well but has been busy and will visit soon. Though a bit let down, Xian chooses to believe Zhi.
Zhao Jing is always lively among her coworkers, but whenever Zou Jie appears, her smile fades and she leaves coldly, leaving Zou Jie feeling awkward. Ultimately, Chen Qiao cannot shake his concern for Xian and secretly visits her. Xian greets him with a cup of red tea, and their time together is filled with warmth and reluctance. Chen Qiao informs Xian that he is about to be assigned to Xining, with no set return date. Despite the deep sorrow in his heart, he knows he must follow orders. Xian feels sad but understands the bigger picture, promising to support Zhi in Shanghai.
As they prepare to part, Xian insists on inviting Chen Qiao to dinner. Although he worries he might not make it, he is touched by her persistence. In the evening, Xian puts all her effort into preparing a modest yet heartfelt meal. Just as she waits, Zhi returns, but Chen Qiao is still missing.
Feeling anxious, Xian sends Zhi to find him, but unexpectedly, Lao Chen arrives first. After a brief reprimand, Chen Qiao hurriedly shows up, explaining his delay. At the dinner table, he praises Xian's cooking, especially the rare chicken dish. It turns out that few people are willing to go to Xining, and those chosen are under strict management, making Chen Qiao's visit quite difficult.
In a hurry, he drinks only a cup of wine and prepares to leave. Xian hands him a boiled egg, and the warmth of her hand deepens his reluctance to part. At that moment, Zhi reveals the true reason for Chen Qiao's assignment to Xining—rehabilitation. Upon learning the truth, Xian can no longer contain her emotions and tearfully tries to keep Chen Qiao from leaving.
Their feelings surge like a tide, and memories flood back as Xian finally confesses her reluctance to let him go. Chen Qiao embraces her tightly, their bond growing stronger. At the train station, Zhi and Zhang Guifen silently watch Chen Qiao's departing figure, tears in their eyes.
Back home, Xian stares at a map, tracing the distance between her and Chen Qiao with her fingertip. Meanwhile, Zou Jie’s life is also stirring. His family has arranged for him to meet a new blind date, Wang Jing. Although he still thinks of Zhi, he doesn’t strongly oppose this setup. During their time together, Wang Jing knows him well, even the details of his divorce, but Zou Jie’s heart is already elsewhere, filled with countless thoughts.
In the end, he politely bids farewell to Wang Jing, but his inner turmoil and conflict intensify. Both Zhi and Xian receive letters from Xining simultaneously. Aunt Wang's curiosity makes Xian slightly annoyed, and she retorts, “Where do you think I should have acquaintances?” This letter serves as a thin thread connecting the hearts of people in two distant places.
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