How to pronounce "公职"

[Footprints of Change]

[Episode 30]

Beichuan.

How are you feeling now?

How should I put it?

Just like Shanghai's weather.

Sunny one moment, rainy the next.

You know what?

If you take my advice,

I suggest you keep your public position.

If you're working in the cultural industry,

holding a university teaching position is something you can proudly present.

Just look at all those so-called celebrities.

Every one of them has a university professor title.

Why?

Don't you know me by now?

I just hate trouble.

You always call it troublesome.

Don't come to regret it later.

And that Tong Tong.

She's definitely got issues.

She's already in her twenties,

her values should be established by now,

yet she acts like a teenager.

What is she thinking?

Doesn't she know how much harm she's causing you,

or how it affects herself?

I asked about this for you.

We have a neighbor next door,

who's now a very successful lawyer.

You can sue her for this.

If you can't teach her a lesson,

let the legal system

educate her properly.

I just

treat her as a naive young girl.

She has no shame.

Should I have no shame too?

Xiang Beichuan, you know,

your greatest charm

is swallowing your pain.

Impressive.

If this

happened to Yan Jun,

that girl would have been dead 800 times over.

Speaking of Yan Jun.

Our project has been approved.

But government funding is limited.

We'll have to raise most of it ourselves.

You have a good relationship with Yan Jun.

Why don't you ask him?

He's doing well now.

He's a big boss.

If you want to ask, go ahead.

In my experience,

working with him is really frustrating.

Don't be at odds with money.

Even heroes can be defeated by financial problems.

How about this?

Come with me.

If you're uncomfortable, I'll talk to him.

After all, I'm not as close to him.

You two have a closer relationship.

Think about it.

Junior.

Senior.

Sorry, are

we late?

No.

It's just that

when I have meetings

I prefer to arrive ten minutes early.

I've ordered coffee for you. Please sit down.

I haven't added anything to the coffee.

Try it.

If it's too bitter,

I can add some sugar for you.

Thank you.

Junior.

No.

Mr. Yan,

have you looked at the project proposal

I sent you last time?

What do you think?

I've read it.

First of all,

I think it's great

that you two are starting a business together.

That's excellent.

But about that proposal,

since we're alumni, I'll be straightforward.

I don't think it will make money.

Here's the thing, Mr. Yan.

Well,

the cultural industry

does have lower profit margins.

But what we're aiming for

is long-term benefits.

For example,

consider this:

these novels will become

intellectual property in the future.

If we think more boldly,

they could be adapted into films or TV series.

So from a long-term perspective,

the prospects are quite promising.

Perhaps you could

reconsider it.

Long-term...

Senior.

Capital comes with costs.

Of course, I'm not saying I won't invest.

I have a business partner recently

and I need to discuss it with her.

You know her.

Here. Xining.

Xining, what brings you here?

Long time no see.

Let me introduce her once more.

Ye Xining, Miss Ye.

Her business is doing very well now.

Her company is bigger than mine.

We're investing in some projects together now.

That's great!

We're all friends here.

Right, Beichuan?

Say something.

Look at him getting nervous again.

He goes quiet when he's nervous.

Xining,

have you read the proposal?

I have.

What do you think?

I think it's excellent.

But

we've seen so many projects,

and I think

it seems like

they all have higher returns than this one.

Why should we invest in this one?

Maybe it's a feeling,

or perhaps more

of a sentimental attachment.

What if we lose money?

If there's a loss, so be it.

If we lose money,

I'll take responsibility.

This is on me anyway.

It has nothing to do with you.

Compared to Xining, I seem so small-minded.

I'm just

shortsighted,

only seeing money.

No, no, not at all.

Yahui.

Shouldn't you bow to Xining?

Well, um...

Well,

I'll use coffee instead of alcohol.

As for the bow,

let's skip that.

Then,

Beichuan.

Let's do this

together.

Let's toast to Miss Ye.

Come on.

O-Over here.

Here, Miss Ye.

I'm sorry. I have something to attend to.

You guys chat.

Let's keep in touch.

Beichuan.

The two of you continue talking.

I have something to do as well. I'll go first.

Xiang Beichuan!

Who said you could leave?

Are we done talking about this?

We're not done yet. You left first.

What's that supposed to mean?

I thought we were done discussing this.

We're not done.

You and Yan Jun are playing good cop,

bad cop. Do you think that's clever?

Yes, it is.

Haven't I been good to you?

That worthless business plan of yours

is bound to make any investor lose money.

Then don't invest.

Why shouldn't I invest?

Then invest.

What's with your attitude?

What attitude should I have?

You tell me.

Was I supposed to stand up and bow to you too?

Yes, you were.

Get on your knees.

Apologize to me.

How dare you say there's something wrong with me?

Can you just let me off the hook?

No.

Why should I let you off?

Whatever you say goes.

I should do whatever you say.

You always call the shots.

Why are you so domineering?

Look in the mirror.

You're describing yourself.

I get it now.

You're saying I'm domineering.

You're saying I put pressure on you, right?

Then you should look in the mirror too.

You're so selfish.

You only love yourself.

Let's just be friends then.

Fine.

From today on,

we'll stay out of each other's way.

We can be friends if possible.

If we can't be friends,

then let's not be anything at all.

Got it.

Good.

It's a deal.

Have you been to this restaurant before?

No, I haven't.

I think the sweet and sour ribs here

are better than the ones at Red Mansion.

Try some.

Excuse me!

I'll have the sweet and sour ribs

and three of your specialty dishes.

Yes, sir.

Xining.

I heard

that your grandfather used to be a minister.

How did you know?

Well,

last night I was

drinking with some business friends.

They all run big businesses.

We got to talking.

They said the current city leaders

used to work under your grandfather.

They want to see

if they could use your connection

to help them acquire some land.

I heard the profits are quite substantial.

What do you think?

What do you think?

I refused.

You really know me well.

That's why we're so like-minded.

Besides,

I won't let you do

anything dangerous.

And also,

money is good,

but it depends on how you earn it.

We've learned from past mistakes.

I've actually felt quite embarrassed about it.

But we're both growing,

both you and me.

Right?

I heard from Yahui

that you're teaching at Jiaotong University now.

I'm in the Civil Engineering Department.

Professor Xiang.

Before I came here,

my cousin showed me your writings.

It was like meeting you through your words.

Well,

You flatter me.

Actually, I'm no longer teaching at the university.

You don't have to call me Professor.

I'll still call you Professor Xiang.

It feels more natural.

Alright,

whatever feels comfortable for you.

It's my first time here too.

Same here.

Beichuan.

You know one another?

They're

my ex-girlfriend and my college classmate.

Professor Ni,

shall we go to another restaurant instead?

Because of the ex-girlfriend?

She is

is a bit unstable

Who is that woman?

Beichuan's girlfriend.

Xiang Beichuan

has a girlfriend now?

You didn't know?

No, I didn't.

You had just gone to Hungary

for about a week,

and they got together.

Are you serious?

No, it's not true.

Just kidding.

I'm just joking.

Don't take it seriously.

Where are you going, Xining?

Xining?

Xiang Beichuan!

I hate you!

You…

Go to hell!

Well, Yin. What are you doing here?

You've been following me?

You went to the exhibition yesterday morning.

Then to a café in the afternoon.

In the evening, you went to a hotel

on Huanghe Road.

You didn't go home.

This morning you went to Qipu Road.

Are you crazy?

I told you to come to the company in a few days,

and I'll refund your money.

Every payment at the company has to follow a process.

Following...

following me...

like this won't help at all.

Give me the money now.

Who carries that much cash around?

This is all I have. Will this do for now?

Not enough.

Take it

or leave it...

You really are

pushing your luck, aren't you?

Trying to snatch my cell phone?

You have no shame.

Just you wait.

Wait for what?

Just you wait.

Wait for what?

Just you wait.

I'll wait.

Ma'am.

Let me make a call.

Is this Professor Ni?

Hello, this is Xiang Beichuan.

Professor Xiang.

A friend gave me two movie tickets.

Would you like to go with me?

Which day?

Today.

Is that convenient?

What time?

The tickets are for 7:15 p.m.

Okay.

Great.

I'll wait for you at the entrance of the cinema at 7.

Alright.

See you soon.

Thank you, Ma'am.

Coming.

Are you going out?

Yes.

Where are you going?

To see a movie.

By yourself?

With someone.

Do you really have to go?

I must.

What time is the movie?

7:15.

It's already 6:30.

I have a watch.

It's too late.

There's still time.

Why do you live in this partition room?

None of your business.

Psychologists say

mentally ill people prefer

small, dark spaces.

You're the one who's mentally ill, aren't you?

You hate me?

I don't.

Why not?

Hatred is an emotion.

There's no emotion between us anymore.

Xiang Beichuan,

you're so petty.

We've been through tough times together.

At the very least, we're friends.

Miss Ye.

You think we're friends,

so that makes us friends?

Is everything in this world just what you think it is?

In your mind,

am I just a fool?

We really can't be friends?

We can't.

Give me a reason.

No reason.

No reason is, in itself, an explanation.

Either

you still hate me,

or

you still love me.

You just said you don't hate me,

so you must still love me.

It's all about that woman, isn't it?

As soon as I left,

you got together with her.

You turned the page faster than flipping through a book.

Really living up to your profession.

I was never in your heart, was I?

Is she very gentle and virtuous?

You must be very comfortable with her.

She revolves around you, looks up to you.

That's the kind of woman you want, right?

You're actually wearing the shirt,

pants, and shoes I gave you,

and going to a movie with her?

You should take them all off

and go naked.

You even took her

to eat at a restaurant.

Why didn't you ever take me to restaurants?

I'm the one who stuck it out with you through hard times.

Eating noodles in that tiny storage room.

You think I enjoyed those noodles?

And you're taking her to movies.

Why her?

I love movies too.

Your place here is quite nice.

Even has a balcony.

I bet you've spent many nights here

watching the stars and the moon.

Telling her all your stories.

While you two were here being romantic,

what was I doing out there?

I was working hard to make money.

Do you know what my life abroad

was like?

I couldn't even get a hot meal every day.

I hated the foreign food.

What are you doing?

Why are you closing the door?

I'm not finished talking.

Open it.

Open the door!

Xiang Beichuan!

You punctured my tire?

Yes, I did. So what?

If I'd known you were going to the movies with her,

I would've punctured you too.

Who am I making money for?

For us to have a better life.

If you're so capable,

then earn it yourself. Can you?

I've never even held another man's hand.

Yet you've been with this woman for so long.

How could you do this to me?

I'll show you what movies are.

[Youth Film Theater]

Professor Ni.

Professor Xiang.

I'm sorry.

I got held up by something.

Let's hurry inside.

But it's already halfway through.

Why don't we come next time?

Alright.

In that case,

let me treat you to a meal.

I've already eaten.

How about we go for a walk?

Sounds good.

Xining.

Professor Xiang.

How many girlfriends have you had before?

Yes.

What do you mean?

I'm sorry.

I've been to several places today

and I'm a bit tired.

So where are you living now, Professor Xiang?

I live in a partition room.

Are you considering moving somewhere else in the future?

Not for now.

It's quite nice living there

and comfortable.

How many years did you work at the university?

Five years.

Then you should have been allocated housing, right?

The school was going to allocate one,

but I gave up my spot.

People like you are quite rare these days.

But since you've chosen

to start a company with my cousin,

it means you must want to make something of yourselves.

Those dormitory-style buildings

are no great loss anyway.

Professor Ni.

I'm really sorry,

but I suddenly have an urgent matter

and need to leave now.

How about this?

Next time, it's my treat.

Whatever you want to eat, I'll pay.

I'm truly sorry.

Excuse me.

Goodbye.

Don't worry.

I've already called to turn myself in.

I told the police

that I'll wait for them right here.

Yahui,

have you contacted a lawyer?

Yes.

The lawyer said my voluntary surrender

might reduce my sentence.

But it could still be

over ten years in prison.

I never thought

that one day

I would come back here again.

I thought I'd never return.

Xining,

do you know

what I love most about this place?

It's this big window.

I love how the sunlight shines through here.

So back then,

when I knew this would become

my bridal chamber,

I felt like

I was the happiest person in the world.

I'm so tired.

I miss my parents.

Huang Yahui.

The girl you saw that day

is not my girlfriend.

That was also our first meeting.

She's just someone I was set up with.

She's Sheng Yahui's cousin.

I'm sorry.

I broke your window

and made a big hole in it.

I'm really sorry.

Professor Ni.

Hello, Professor Xiang.

Am I late?

No, not at all.

I'm really sorry about yesterday. I...

It's fine, Professor Xiang.

Professor Xiang, what would you like to drink?

I usually drink tea.

Professor Xiang.

This is a coffee shop.

They probably don't serve tea.

I'm really sorry.

Coffee is fine too.

Although we haven't met many times,

you seem to have apologized quite a lot, Professor Xiang.

I'm sorry about that.

Professor Xiang.

From our few interactions,

I can tell you're a very sincere person.

But I feel that

you might have many things

that you haven't resolved yet.

We haven't known each other for long.

I don't want to add any pressure on you.

Why don't we

put our relationship on hold for now?

When you've peacefully

dealt with everything in your life,

we can see if we want to develop this further.

What do you think?

No problem.

Alright then.

Professor Xiang.

Hope to see you again next time.

Goodbye.

Goodbye.

[Mr. Yan Jun's Birthday Party]

Mr. Yan.

Wait a moment.

Happy birthday.

Thank you.

Everyone else came so early.

Why are you so late?

Trying to make a grand entrance?

I'll drink as punishment. Happy now?

Come, sit here.

Guys.

Could you move over there for a drink?

We need to talk.

Sure.

I'll drink up.

Did you know Shang Yunfei was arrested?

When did that happen?

Just a couple days ago.

His case has been going on for quite a while.

He got what he deserved.

How long do you think

he will be sentenced for?

The amount in his case is substantial.

His sentence probably won't be short.

There's something I need to ask you.

Did you tell Ye Xining

that I was dating that female teacher

and had been for quite a while?

Yeah.

What's wrong?

Where did you get the idea I was dating her?

What's your relationship with Ye Xining now?

Nothing.

If there's nothing between you, what's wrong with me joking around?

If you two were together,

what I did would be inappropriate.

But you're not together,

so what's the problem?

I'm just asking.

Do you still want to be with her?

No.

Are you sure?

I'm sure.

I'm going to the bathroom.

Take your time drinking and enjoying yourself.

You're here, Xining.

Mr. Yan.

I'm sorry I'm late.

Happy birthday.

Thank you.

Beichuan is here too.

He's inside.

He came too?

Let's go in.

Wait a moment.

I'd like to have a quick chat with you first.

What's your relationship with Beichuan now?

Actually, I don't know

what we are anymore.

So can you two

still be together?

That mainly depends on him.

Seems you still care about him a lot.

As business people,

we can be domineering sometimes

because we make more money.

So maybe many things at home,

like food and clothes, are actually paid for by us.

Over time,

the other person might feel

a bit inferior.

Inferiority leads to sensitivity.

Sensitivity leads to arguments.

And that's not good in the long run.

If

you two really want to stay together,

I hope

Xining, you could tone down

your dominance a bit.

Things would be much better that way.

Of course, I'm not saying Beichuan is perfect.

Beichuan

is always standing still.

Not like us who

can keep up with the times.

But I think

keeping up with the times refers to work

and career,

not love.

Beichuan has always stayed the same,

which means he's very traditional.

That's actually quite good.

For example, when you come home every day,

there might be someone

who has prepared dinner and is waiting for you.

If you found someone like me,

out partying every day

and making a mess,

you wouldn't stand it either.

So what I'm saying is,

if you two

really want to be together,

then both of you need to change.

Of course,

if you two ultimately

can't make it work,

then I hope

it won't affect you too much.

You can still focus on your work.

We can work together

and make a lot of money.

1 million, 2 million, 5 million.

It's all possible.

I'm going to Canada later this year.

I heard the down there is excellent.

If you'd like,

we could go together.

I'll book two tickets,

first class.

That way the journey won't be tiring.

And my English isn't good.

You could help translate for me when we're there.

You'd be a big help.

Alright, I've said everything I wanted to say.

You should go in now.

Okay.

I'll go in and sing for a while.

I need to use the bathroom.

Go ahead.

Beichuan.

Yin?

What are you doing here?

I stabbed Yan Jun.

What did you say?

I stabbed Yan Jun.

I've settled the score.

You stabbed

Yan Jun?

Hello?

Is this the police?

Yan Jun.

Yan Jun!

Are you okay?

Call an ambulance quickly!

What's happening here?

Ye Xining,

go get an ambulance quickly!

Are you alright?

Wait, where are you hurt?

Hang in there!

He's been stabbed.

Go get an ambulance now!

Has anyone called the police?

Um, how do I call for one?

Find a public phone or ask someone for help.

Hurry and get an ambulance!

Go!

Okay.

Are you okay?

Help!

Hang in there!

Help!

Please hold on.

[One week later, Inpatient Department]

What bad luck.

I should have listened to you.

I never thought this guy would be so vicious.

Left me with a huge hole.

Well. You were behind this, weren't you?

I haven't even had my stitches removed.

How could you be so heartless?

Yan Jun.

This is heaven teaching you a lesson.

I hope in the future

you can be a businessman with a conscience.

From now on, every week...

I mean, every month.

I'll donate money to the orphanage.

You'll help me with this, right?

Mr. Yan.

Mr. Yan.

Mr. Lu.

Xining.

You look well.

We've all been worried about you.

Seeing you recover so well

puts our minds at ease.

This is what they call

surviving a great disaster

brings good fortune afterward.

I came by car.

Let me give everyone a ride.

Thank you, Mr. Lu.

Mr. Lu.

I'll take my bike.

You go ahead then.

Alright.

Leave him to me.

Goodbye.

Take it slow!

Xiang Beichuan.

Don't you have anything to say to me?

Fine.

If you have nothing to say to me,

I have something to tell you.

About what happened

a year ago with the switch,

I owe you a thank you.

Thank you.

It's all in the past.

I hope you'll

be well in the future.

You too.

I never thought

that the laughter among our old friends

would be so short-lived.

Yin's stabbing

also exposed all of Yan Jun's past misdeeds.

He was convicted of bribing officials,

lost everything,

and sentenced to several years in prison.

Oh my god.

Why are you here?

Why do you look so exhausted?

I need to rest for a bit.

Oh my!

What's going on?

Ye Xining

just called me

and asked if I'm free tomorrow

to take her to the airport.

I asked where she was going,

and she said back to Hungary.

I asked when she'd be back,

and she said not anytime soon.

Oh, right.

She left you a twin-tub washing machine

because your partition room is damp

and clothes won't dry properly.

I just went to get it for you.

As I understand it,

the twin-tub washing machine

has one tub on the left

and one on the right.

The left one washes

and the right one spins dry.

The spin dryer is quite special.

You've never heard that sound, have you?

No.

When that spin dryer starts,

it's extremely loud.

Very noisy.

So it's settled.

You'll come to my place to do laundry at night,

and if I get hungry,

I'll come over for some noodles.

The one on the left

is for washing.

The one on the right

is for spinning.

My mom has one of these.

I must say this thing works really well.

It only has one drawback.

It's too noisy.

Once it starts spinning,

it just keeps going.

It's so noisy here.

Where are you going?

You stay here.

I need to go out for a while.

Why are you here?

I'm here to do laundry.

Laundry?

Don't you have a washing machine here?

Sheng Yahui

already sent the washing machine to your place.

I didn't know that.

What do you really want to talk about?

Can you please stay?

Why should I?

I don't want you to leave.

The flight tickets are already booked.

Tickets can be refunded.

If that doesn't work,

I'll pay you back the difference.

Do you think we're right for each other?

Yes.

I don't think so.

You wouldn't be able to handle

someone with my personality.

It's okay.

I can improve.

I can learn.

I can adapt to you.

Xiang Beichuan,

you can't do it.

You're just not the type who can put up with me.

Why don't we give it a try?

We've been trying for so long.

I don't want to change myself.

What you like

is who I used to be.

The person you were before and who you are now

are the same person.

♪ The pain is real, my heart's a mess ♪

So you agree?

♪ Happiness has been lost ♪

♪ Regret won't be in short supply ♪

I didn't.

Any relationship not aimed at marriage

♪ The smile is sweet, but my heart aches ♪

is just fooling around.

What do you mean?

Let's get married.

♪ I'm of the night ♪

With our personalities,

♪ You're of the sunlight ♪

we need commitment.

What if things don't work out later?

♪ To love someone ♪

♪ Comes in ten thousand ways ♪

Then we'll get another certificate,

a divorce certificate.

♪ Yet I have to swallow the words ♪

Xiang Beichuan,

you're such a scoundrel.

Then I'll be a scoundrel all the way,

♪ To love someone ♪

a scoundrel

♪ You find ten thousand ways to stay ♪

who will never leave you for a lifetime.

♪ But I can't help hiding my words of love♪

♪ If love can't be spoken ♪

♪ Then write a song ♪

♪ Sing out your love and courage ♪

♪ May you be forever in love ♪

♪ May the rest of your life be happy ♪

♪ May you never forget me ♪

Grandma.

Grandma.

Grandma.

You're the great designer. Please tell me,

does it look good?

Beautiful.

Our Ning looks beautiful in anything.

How is it?

Grandma,

I'm getting married.

I'm

returning it to its rightful owner.

Thank you for helping me.

Keep it.

This pocket watch was always meant for you.

[Footprints of Change]

[Episode 30]

Beichuan.

How are you feeling now?

How should I put it?

Just like Shanghai's weather.

Sunny one moment, rainy the next.

You know what?

If you take my advice,

I suggest you keep your public position.

If you're working in the cultural industry,

holding a university teaching position is something you can proudly present.

Just look at all those so-called celebrities.

Every one of them has a university professor title.

Why?

Don't you know me by now?

I just hate trouble.

You always call it troublesome.

Don't come to regret it later.

And that Tong Tong.

She's definitely got issues.

She's already in her twenties,

her values should be established by now,

yet she acts like a teenager.

What is she thinking?

Doesn't she know how much harm she's causing you,

or how it affects herself?

I asked about this for you.

We have a neighbor next door,

who's now a very successful lawyer.

You can sue her for this.

If you can't teach her a lesson,

let the legal system

educate her properly.

I just

treat her as a naive young girl.

She has no shame.

Should I have no shame too?

Xiang Beichuan, you know,

your greatest charm

is swallowing your pain.

Impressive.

If this

happened to Yan Jun,

that girl would have been dead 800 times over.

Speaking of Yan Jun.

Our project has been approved.

But government funding is limited.

We'll have to raise most of it ourselves.

You have a good relationship with Yan Jun.

Why don't you ask him?

He's doing well now.

He's a big boss.

If you want to ask, go ahead.

In my experience,

working with him is really frustrating.

Don't be at odds with money.

Even heroes can be defeated by financial problems.

How about this?

Come with me.

If you're uncomfortable, I'll talk to him.

After all, I'm not as close to him.

You two have a closer relationship.

Think about it.

Junior.

Senior.

Sorry, are

we late?

No.

It's just that

when I have meetings

I prefer to arrive ten minutes early.

I've ordered coffee for you. Please sit down.

I haven't added anything to the coffee.

Try it.

If it's too bitter,

I can add some sugar for you.

Thank you.

Junior.

No.

Mr. Yan,

have you looked at the project proposal

I sent you last time?

What do you think?

I've read it.

First of all,

I think it's great

that you two are starting a business together.

That's excellent.

But about that proposal,

since we're alumni, I'll be straightforward.

I don't think it will make money.

Here's the thing, Mr. Yan.

Well,

the cultural industry

does have lower profit margins.

But what we're aiming for

is long-term benefits.

For example,

consider this:

these novels will become

intellectual property in the future.

If we think more boldly,

they could be adapted into films or TV series.

So from a long-term perspective,

the prospects are quite promising.

Perhaps you could

reconsider it.

Long-term...

Senior.

Capital comes with costs.

Of course, I'm not saying I won't invest.

I have a business partner recently

and I need to discuss it with her.

You know her.

Here. Xining.

Xining, what brings you here?

Long time no see.

Let me introduce her once more.

Ye Xining, Miss Ye.

Her business is doing very well now.

Her company is bigger than mine.

We're investing in some projects together now.

That's great!

We're all friends here.

Right, Beichuan?

Say something.

Look at him getting nervous again.

He goes quiet when he's nervous.

Xining,

have you read the proposal?

I have.

What do you think?

I think it's excellent.

But

we've seen so many projects,

and I think

it seems like

they all have higher returns than this one.

Why should we invest in this one?

Maybe it's a feeling,

or perhaps more

of a sentimental attachment.

What if we lose money?

If there's a loss, so be it.

If we lose money,

I'll take responsibility.

This is on me anyway.

It has nothing to do with you.

Compared to Xining, I seem so small-minded.

I'm just

shortsighted,

only seeing money.

No, no, not at all.

Yahui.

Shouldn't you bow to Xining?

Well, um...

Well,

I'll use coffee instead of alcohol.

As for the bow,

let's skip that.

Then,

Beichuan.

Let's do this

together.

Let's toast to Miss Ye.

Come on.

O-Over here.

Here, Miss Ye.

I'm sorry. I have something to attend to.

You guys chat.

Let's keep in touch.

Beichuan.

The two of you continue talking.

I have something to do as well. I'll go first.

Xiang Beichuan!

Who said you could leave?

Are we done talking about this?

We're not done yet. You left first.

What's that supposed to mean?

I thought we were done discussing this.

We're not done.

You and Yan Jun are playing good cop,

bad cop. Do you think that's clever?

Yes, it is.

Haven't I been good to you?

That worthless business plan of yours

is bound to make any investor lose money.

Then don't invest.

Why shouldn't I invest?

Then invest.

What's with your attitude?

What attitude should I have?

You tell me.

Was I supposed to stand up and bow to you too?

Yes, you were.

Get on your knees.

Apologize to me.

How dare you say there's something wrong with me?

Can you just let me off the hook?

No.

Why should I let you off?

Whatever you say goes.

I should do whatever you say.

You always call the shots.

Why are you so domineering?

Look in the mirror.

You're describing yourself.

I get it now.

You're saying I'm domineering.

You're saying I put pressure on you, right?

Then you should look in the mirror too.

You're so selfish.

You only love yourself.

Let's just be friends then.

Fine.

From today on,

we'll stay out of each other's way.

We can be friends if possible.

If we can't be friends,

then let's not be anything at all.

Got it.

Good.

It's a deal.

Have you been to this restaurant before?

No, I haven't.

I think the sweet and sour ribs here

are better than the ones at Red Mansion.

Try some.

Excuse me!

I'll have the sweet and sour ribs

and three of your specialty dishes.

Yes, sir.

Xining.

I heard

that your grandfather used to be a minister.

How did you know?

Well,

last night I was

drinking with some business friends.

They all run big businesses.

We got to talking.

They said the current city leaders

used to work under your grandfather.

They want to see

if they could use your connection

to help them acquire some land.

I heard the profits are quite substantial.

What do you think?

What do you think?

I refused.

You really know me well.

That's why we're so like-minded.

Besides,

I won't let you do

anything dangerous.

And also,

money is good,

but it depends on how you earn it.

We've learned from past mistakes.

I've actually felt quite embarrassed about it.

But we're both growing,

both you and me.

Right?

I heard from Yahui

that you're teaching at Jiaotong University now.

I'm in the Civil Engineering Department.

Professor Xiang.

Before I came here,

my cousin showed me your writings.

It was like meeting you through your words.

Well,

You flatter me.

Actually, I'm no longer teaching at the university.

You don't have to call me Professor.

I'll still call you Professor Xiang.

It feels more natural.

Alright,

whatever feels comfortable for you.

It's my first time here too.

Same here.

Beichuan.

You know one another?

They're

my ex-girlfriend and my college classmate.

Professor Ni,

shall we go to another restaurant instead?

Because of the ex-girlfriend?

She is

is a bit unstable

Who is that woman?

Beichuan's girlfriend.

Xiang Beichuan

has a girlfriend now?

You didn't know?

No, I didn't.

You had just gone to Hungary

for about a week,

and they got together.

Are you serious?

No, it's not true.

Just kidding.

I'm just joking.

Don't take it seriously.

Where are you going, Xining?

Xining?

Xiang Beichuan!

I hate you!

You…

Go to hell!

Well, Yin. What are you doing here?

You've been following me?

You went to the exhibition yesterday morning.

Then to a café in the afternoon.

In the evening, you went to a hotel

on Huanghe Road.

You didn't go home.

This morning you went to Qipu Road.

Are you crazy?

I told you to come to the company in a few days,

and I'll refund your money.

Every payment at the company has to follow a process.

Following...

following me...

like this won't help at all.

Give me the money now.

Who carries that much cash around?

This is all I have. Will this do for now?

Not enough.

Take it

or leave it...

You really are

pushing your luck, aren't you?

Trying to snatch my cell phone?

You have no shame.

Just you wait.

Wait for what?

Just you wait.

Wait for what?

Just you wait.

I'll wait.

Ma'am.

Let me make a call.

Is this Professor Ni?

Hello, this is Xiang Beichuan.

Professor Xiang.

A friend gave me two movie tickets.

Would you like to go with me?

Which day?

Today.

Is that convenient?

What time?

The tickets are for 7:15 p.m.

Okay.

Great.

I'll wait for you at the entrance of the cinema at 7.

Alright.

See you soon.

Thank you, Ma'am.

Coming.

Are you going out?

Yes.

Where are you going?

To see a movie.

By yourself?

With someone.

Do you really have to go?

I must.

What time is the movie?

7:15.

It's already 6:30.

I have a watch.

It's too late.

There's still time.

Why do you live in this partition room?

None of your business.

Psychologists say

mentally ill people prefer

small, dark spaces.

You're the one who's mentally ill, aren't you?

You hate me?

I don't.

Why not?

Hatred is an emotion.

There's no emotion between us anymore.

Xiang Beichuan,

you're so petty.

We've been through tough times together.

At the very least, we're friends.

Miss Ye.

You think we're friends,

so that makes us friends?

Is everything in this world just what you think it is?

In your mind,

am I just a fool?

We really can't be friends?

We can't.

Give me a reason.

No reason.

No reason is, in itself, an explanation.

Either

you still hate me,

or

you still love me.

You just said you don't hate me,

so you must still love me.

It's all about that woman, isn't it?

As soon as I left,

you got together with her.

You turned the page faster than flipping through a book.

Really living up to your profession.

I was never in your heart, was I?

Is she very gentle and virtuous?

You must be very comfortable with her.

She revolves around you, looks up to you.

That's the kind of woman you want, right?

You're actually wearing the shirt,

pants, and shoes I gave you,

and going to a movie with her?

You should take them all off

and go naked.

You even took her

to eat at a restaurant.

Why didn't you ever take me to restaurants?

I'm the one who stuck it out with you through hard times.

Eating noodles in that tiny storage room.

You think I enjoyed those noodles?

And you're taking her to movies.

Why her?

I love movies too.

Your place here is quite nice.

Even has a balcony.

I bet you've spent many nights here

watching the stars and the moon.

Telling her all your stories.

While you two were here being romantic,

what was I doing out there?

I was working hard to make money.

Do you know what my life abroad

was like?

I couldn't even get a hot meal every day.

I hated the foreign food.

What are you doing?

Why are you closing the door?

I'm not finished talking.

Open it.

Open the door!

Xiang Beichuan!

You punctured my tire?

Yes, I did. So what?

If I'd known you were going to the movies with her,

I would've punctured you too.

Who am I making money for?

For us to have a better life.

If you're so capable,

then earn it yourself. Can you?

I've never even held another man's hand.

Yet you've been with this woman for so long.

How could you do this to me?

I'll show you what movies are.

[Youth Film Theater]

Professor Ni.

Professor Xiang.

I'm sorry.

I got held up by something.

Let's hurry inside.

But it's already halfway through.

Why don't we come next time?

Alright.

In that case,

let me treat you to a meal.

I've already eaten.

How about we go for a walk?

Sounds good.

Xining.

Professor Xiang.

How many girlfriends have you had before?

Yes.

What do you mean?

I'm sorry.

I've been to several places today

and I'm a bit tired.

So where are you living now, Professor Xiang?

I live in a partition room.

Are you considering moving somewhere else in the future?

Not for now.

It's quite nice living there

and comfortable.

How many years did you work at the university?

Five years.

Then you should have been allocated housing, right?

The school was going to allocate one,

but I gave up my spot.

People like you are quite rare these days.

But since you've chosen

to start a company with my cousin,

it means you must want to make something of yourselves.

Those dormitory-style buildings

are no great loss anyway.

Professor Ni.

I'm really sorry,

but I suddenly have an urgent matter

and need to leave now.

How about this?

Next time, it's my treat.

Whatever you want to eat, I'll pay.

I'm truly sorry.

Excuse me.

Goodbye.

Don't worry.

I've already called to turn myself in.

I told the police

that I'll wait for them right here.

Yahui,

have you contacted a lawyer?

Yes.

The lawyer said my voluntary surrender

might reduce my sentence.

But it could still be

over ten years in prison.

I never thought

that one day

I would come back here again.

I thought I'd never return.

Xining,

do you know

what I love most about this place?

It's this big window.

I love how the sunlight shines through here.

So back then,

when I knew this would become

my bridal chamber,

I felt like

I was the happiest person in the world.

I'm so tired.

I miss my parents.

Huang Yahui.

The girl you saw that day

is not my girlfriend.

That was also our first meeting.

She's just someone I was set up with.

She's Sheng Yahui's cousin.

I'm sorry.

I broke your window

and made a big hole in it.

I'm really sorry.

Professor Ni.

Hello, Professor Xiang.

Am I late?

No, not at all.

I'm really sorry about yesterday. I...

It's fine, Professor Xiang.

Professor Xiang, what would you like to drink?

I usually drink tea.

Professor Xiang.

This is a coffee shop.

They probably don't serve tea.

I'm really sorry.

Coffee is fine too.

Although we haven't met many times,

you seem to have apologized quite a lot, Professor Xiang.

I'm sorry about that.

Professor Xiang.

From our few interactions,

I can tell you're a very sincere person.

But I feel that

you might have many things

that you haven't resolved yet.

We haven't known each other for long.

I don't want to add any pressure on you.

Why don't we

put our relationship on hold for now?

When you've peacefully

dealt with everything in your life,

we can see if we want to develop this further.

What do you think?

No problem.

Alright then.

Professor Xiang.

Hope to see you again next time.

Goodbye.

Goodbye.

[Mr. Yan Jun's Birthday Party]

Mr. Yan.

Wait a moment.

Happy birthday.

Thank you.

Everyone else came so early.

Why are you so late?

Trying to make a grand entrance?

I'll drink as punishment. Happy now?

Come, sit here.

Guys.

Could you move over there for a drink?

We need to talk.

Sure.

I'll drink up.

Did you know Shang Yunfei was arrested?

When did that happen?

Just a couple days ago.

His case has been going on for quite a while.

He got what he deserved.

How long do you think

he will be sentenced for?

The amount in his case is substantial.

His sentence probably won't be short.

There's something I need to ask you.

Did you tell Ye Xining

that I was dating that female teacher

and had been for quite a while?

Yeah.

What's wrong?

Where did you get the idea I was dating her?

What's your relationship with Ye Xining now?

Nothing.

If there's nothing between you, what's wrong with me joking around?

If you two were together,

what I did would be inappropriate.

But you're not together,

so what's the problem?

I'm just asking.

Do you still want to be with her?

No.

Are you sure?

I'm sure.

I'm going to the bathroom.

Take your time drinking and enjoying yourself.

You're here, Xining.

Mr. Yan.

I'm sorry I'm late.

Happy birthday.

Thank you.

Beichuan is here too.

He's inside.

He came too?

Let's go in.

Wait a moment.

I'd like to have a quick chat with you first.

What's your relationship with Beichuan now?

Actually, I don't know

what we are anymore.

So can you two

still be together?

That mainly depends on him.

Seems you still care about him a lot.

As business people,

we can be domineering sometimes

because we make more money.

So maybe many things at home,

like food and clothes, are actually paid for by us.

Over time,

the other person might feel

a bit inferior.

Inferiority leads to sensitivity.

Sensitivity leads to arguments.

And that's not good in the long run.

If

you two really want to stay together,

I hope

Xining, you could tone down

your dominance a bit.

Things would be much better that way.

Of course, I'm not saying Beichuan is perfect.

Beichuan

is always standing still.

Not like us who

can keep up with the times.

But I think

keeping up with the times refers to work

and career,

not love.

Beichuan has always stayed the same,

which means he's very traditional.

That's actually quite good.

For example, when you come home every day,

there might be someone

who has prepared dinner and is waiting for you.

If you found someone like me,

out partying every day

and making a mess,

you wouldn't stand it either.

So what I'm saying is,

if you two

really want to be together,

then both of you need to change.

Of course,

if you two ultimately

can't make it work,

then I hope

it won't affect you too much.

You can still focus on your work.

We can work together

and make a lot of money.

1 million, 2 million, 5 million.

It's all possible.

I'm going to Canada later this year.

I heard the down there is excellent.

If you'd like,

we could go together.

I'll book two tickets,

first class.

That way the journey won't be tiring.

And my English isn't good.

You could help translate for me when we're there.

You'd be a big help.

Alright, I've said everything I wanted to say.

You should go in now.

Okay.

I'll go in and sing for a while.

I need to use the bathroom.

Go ahead.

Beichuan.

Yin?

What are you doing here?

I stabbed Yan Jun.

What did you say?

I stabbed Yan Jun.

I've settled the score.

You stabbed

Yan Jun?

Hello?

Is this the police?

Yan Jun.

Yan Jun!

Are you okay?

Call an ambulance quickly!

What's happening here?

Ye Xining,

go get an ambulance quickly!

Are you alright?

Wait, where are you hurt?

Hang in there!

He's been stabbed.

Go get an ambulance now!

Has anyone called the police?

Um, how do I call for one?

Find a public phone or ask someone for help.

Hurry and get an ambulance!

Go!

Okay.

Are you okay?

Help!

Hang in there!

Help!

Please hold on.

[One week later, Inpatient Department]

What bad luck.

I should have listened to you.

I never thought this guy would be so vicious.

Left me with a huge hole.

Well. You were behind this, weren't you?

I haven't even had my stitches removed.

How could you be so heartless?

Yan Jun.

This is heaven teaching you a lesson.

I hope in the future

you can be a businessman with a conscience.

From now on, every week...

I mean, every month.

I'll donate money to the orphanage.

You'll help me with this, right?

Mr. Yan.

Mr. Yan.

Mr. Lu.

Xining.

You look well.

We've all been worried about you.

Seeing you recover so well

puts our minds at ease.

This is what they call

surviving a great disaster

brings good fortune afterward.

I came by car.

Let me give everyone a ride.

Thank you, Mr. Lu.

Mr. Lu.

I'll take my bike.

You go ahead then.

Alright.

Leave him to me.

Goodbye.

Take it slow!

Xiang Beichuan.

Don't you have anything to say to me?

Fine.

If you have nothing to say to me,

I have something to tell you.

About what happened

a year ago with the switch,

I owe you a thank you.

Thank you.

It's all in the past.

I hope you'll

be well in the future.

You too.

I never thought

that the laughter among our old friends

would be so short-lived.

Yin's stabbing

also exposed all of Yan Jun's past misdeeds.

He was convicted of bribing officials,

lost everything,

and sentenced to several years in prison.

Oh my god.

Why are you here?

Why do you look so exhausted?

I need to rest for a bit.

Oh my!

What's going on?

Ye Xining

just called me

and asked if I'm free tomorrow

to take her to the airport.

I asked where she was going,

and she said back to Hungary.

I asked when she'd be back,

and she said not anytime soon.

Oh, right.

She left you a twin-tub washing machine

because your partition room is damp

and clothes won't dry properly.

I just went to get it for you.

As I understand it,

the twin-tub washing machine

has one tub on the left

and one on the right.

The left one washes

and the right one spins dry.

The spin dryer is quite special.

You've never heard that sound, have you?

No.

When that spin dryer starts,

it's extremely loud.

Very noisy.

So it's settled.

You'll come to my place to do laundry at night,

and if I get hungry,

I'll come over for some noodles.

The one on the left

is for washing.

The one on the right

is for spinning.

My mom has one of these.

I must say this thing works really well.

It only has one drawback.

It's too noisy.

Once it starts spinning,

it just keeps going.

It's so noisy here.

Where are you going?

You stay here.

I need to go out for a while.

Why are you here?

I'm here to do laundry.

Laundry?

Don't you have a washing machine here?

Sheng Yahui

already sent the washing machine to your place.

I didn't know that.

What do you really want to talk about?

Can you please stay?

Why should I?

I don't want you to leave.

The flight tickets are already booked.

Tickets can be refunded.

If that doesn't work,

I'll pay you back the difference.

Do you think we're right for each other?

Yes.

I don't think so.

You wouldn't be able to handle

someone with my personality.

It's okay.

I can improve.

I can learn.

I can adapt to you.

Xiang Beichuan,

you can't do it.

You're just not the type who can put up with me.

Why don't we give it a try?

We've been trying for so long.

I don't want to change myself.

What you like

is who I used to be.

The person you were before and who you are now

are the same person.

♪ The pain is real, my heart's a mess ♪

So you agree?

♪ Happiness has been lost ♪

♪ Regret won't be in short supply ♪

I didn't.

Any relationship not aimed at marriage

♪ The smile is sweet, but my heart aches ♪

is just fooling around.

What do you mean?

Let's get married.

♪ I'm of the night ♪

With our personalities,

♪ You're of the sunlight ♪

we need commitment.

What if things don't work out later?

♪ To love someone ♪

♪ Comes in ten thousand ways ♪

Then we'll get another certificate,

a divorce certificate.

♪ Yet I have to swallow the words ♪

Xiang Beichuan,

you're such a scoundrel.

Then I'll be a scoundrel all the way,

♪ To love someone ♪

a scoundrel

♪ You find ten thousand ways to stay ♪

who will never leave you for a lifetime.

♪ But I can't help hiding my words of love♪

♪ If love can't be spoken ♪

♪ Then write a song ♪

♪ Sing out your love and courage ♪

♪ May you be forever in love ♪

♪ May the rest of your life be happy ♪

♪ May you never forget me ♪

Grandma.

Grandma.

Grandma.

You're the great designer. Please tell me,

does it look good?

Beautiful.

Our Ning looks beautiful in anything.

How is it?

Grandma,

I'm getting married.

I'm

returning it to its rightful owner.

Thank you for helping me.

Keep it.

This pocket watch was always meant for you.