How to pronounce "别扭"

[Footprints of Change]

[Episode 16]

Actually, all I wanted was

to keep her company.

I was afraid she'd be lonely

or that she'd be bullied.

Who knew she would react so strongly?

Actually,

I get what Yang meant.

He's just worried your sister-in-law

might fall for some shady man

and tarnish

the name of a martyr's widow.

Right?

Mr. Yang definitely meant well.

I know

my brother and sister-in-law truly loved each other.

She would never love another man.

Director Fang,

what do you think?

I don't know.

So you're saying

she might fall for another man?

Hard to say.

Then I'll go talk to her!

Well,

are you suggesting

that you expect her to remain a widow

for the rest of her life?

You're a Communist Youth League member.

This kind of idea isn't right.

It's feudal thinking

that should be criticized.

But I just can't get over it.

The thought of her with another man…

I...

I feel uncomfortable.

It upsets me.

You understand me, right?

Young comrade,

you're quite adorable.

Director Fang says I'm adorable.

Ms. Yi,

may I share my thoughts

about this design draft?

Of course.

I might not be right.

I actually wanted to say this last time.

I think this design

isn't quite complete yet.

On the surface, it looks fine,

but somehow it lacks a bit of...

character.

Ms. Su,

I feel the same.

That's why I've been delaying submission.

I've been stuck at home lately,

no inspiration at all.

Then get out for a walk.

Haven't you been out for a long time?

Is that allowed?

Of course it is.

That's great!

My bike's broken.

I'll get it fixed tomorrow.

Okay.

What are you doing?

Fixing the bike.

Xiurong said

the chain fell off.

Turns out the tire's flat too.

Where did you ride this nice bike to,

getting it like this?

To the mountains.

The mountains?

How did you get the bike back?

I carried it.

You?

Yes, me.

Once I fix this bike,

no matter how you ride it in the future,

the chain won't come off again.

Don't carry it next time.

With those skinny arms and legs,

you might fall into a ditch.

Are you worried about me?

Yes.

But you're not fixing my bike.

You—

You're lying.

This is your bike.

Are you kidding me?

Don't touch it.

It's dirty.

Scholar.

Haven't had hot oil noodles for a long time, right?

Yeah.

What's up?

Do you remember Sun from the mess hall?

I do.

He made the best hot oil noodles.

His whole family has moved here.

They moved to Shanghai?

Yes.

Really?

Really.

Where?

Right under the bridge.

Look.

-It's over there. -That one.

We can't show up empty-handed.

There was a pastry shop on the way.

Here.

Buy some snacks for the kids.

I have money.

Come on, put that away.

You really do?

I'll go. I'll go.

Okay.

You go ahead first.

Is the pen good to use?

Minister...

Minister Wen, what...

What are you doing here?

An old comrade opened a noodle shop here.

We came for a bowl of noodles.

I saw you drawing from a distance,

so I came over to take a look.

You haven't answered my question yet.

What question?

The pen,

is it good?

It's good.

I've been using it a lot lately.

Did you draw this?

May I see it?

Just a casual sketch.

You like drawing people?

I think sometimes people,

in their natural, lively moments,

really move me.

I don't know art,

but I believe everything in this world is connected.

Every piece of work

reflects the creator's state of mind at that moment.

Am I right?

You draw very well.

You always support me.

Actually,

your support means a lot to me.

There have been many times when I felt

I couldn't go on anymore.

But then I think,

there's still someone like you, a leader who's cultured,

well-mannered and selfless,

and I'd feel at peace.

At least there's still someone

who understands people like us.

Scholar,

I was wondering where you went.

Turns out here you are, hiding...

hiding such a beauty.

Don't talk nonsense!

That's not funny!

Do you know who she is?

I told you about Zhou Zhaoyuan.

This is his wife, Ms. Yi Yi.

Apologize to her.

No need.

No, no.

I should apologize.

I'm sorry,

Ms. Zhou.

No, I mean,

Ms. Yi, right?

You know,

our comrades who worked underground

deserve great respect,

and their families

are even more admirable.

I'm sorry,

I spoke too rashly.

It's fine.

Well,

I'm Zhao Hangong,

Wen's comrade-in-arms.

We've been through life and death together.

Hello.

Hello.

Hello.

Did you buy the gift?

Yes, I did.

So let's...

Shall we...

How about

we go to my old comrade's noodle shop

for a bowl of noodles?

Have some noodles.

Yes.

It's quite special.

-Let's go together. -The noodles are so good.

I'll... I'll go ahead.

I'll go first

to order.

Let's go.

Let me take it.

Sun's cooking

looks great.

Not bad.

Ms. Yi,

wait, you need to mix it first.

Mix it well before eating.

It tastes better that way.

Not like that.

Well,

let me help.

Come on.

You see,

with hot oil noodles,

mixing is the key.

You need to mix it hard.

It tastes better when everything is fully blended.

Here.

-Thank you, Minister Wen. -Try it.

After finishing the noodles, have a bowl of soup.

What boils together, digests together.

Perfect match.

Okay.

Comrade Yi.

Um, you don't mind

if I call you that, do you?

Go ahead, Comrade Zhao.

Alright then.

Actually,

Wen really put in a lot of effort

in confirming

Comrade Zhaoyuan's identity.

It wasn't easy at all.

Zhao,

can we not talk about this?

Eat.

Minister Wen,

let Comrade Zhao finish.

I'd like to know more about Zhaoyuan too.

I'm just telling the truth.

Wen

had all of us

investigate

Comrade Zhou Zhaoyuan's identity.

We went to the local archives

and reviewed many documents.

Honestly,

without Wen's help,

confirming Zhaoyuan's identity

would have taken forever.

So you helped confirm Zhaoyuan's identity?

Actually, at first

I learned from you that

Comrade Zhaoyuan had excellent artistic taste.

Later, I happened to chat with Fu Zihe

and found out

that he lived very frugally.

Once when they were having a meal together,

he noticed

that Zhaoyuan's sock had a hole in it

which he had mended himself.

His sock had a hole in it?

I didn't even know that.

Also,

we learned that

among the high-ranking KMT officers,

there are many of our own comrades

who are frugal

and highly cultured.

Following that lead,

I found him

and proved that

your husband, Comrade Zhaoyuan,

was one of us.

I want to thank you on behalf of Zhaoyuan,

and for Qing and myself as well.

Eat now.

The noodles will get sticky soon.

Thank you.

I... I want some soup too.

Okay.

Here's for you.

Okay, thanks.

Perfect match indeed.

By the way,

Yuanyuan's birthday

is in a couple of days,

right?

How do you know?

My son told me.

Oh, right.

Isn't it just one day apart from Huzi's birthday?

Now I remember.

That's true.

Then...

Let them celebrate together.

Yes, bring Huzi over

and let the kids celebrate their birthdays together.

Yi,

would you like to join us?

Me?

Yes,

why don't you come along?

You know

my daughter Yuanyuan anyway.

Come celebrate her birthday.

Join us.

You already know each other.

Can you drive slower?

It's too bumpy.

Wen,

you never used to complain

when you've ridden in my car all this time.

Slow down.

Slow down?

Alright.

I'll slow down.

Uh-oh. Broke down again.

Hold on.

Overheated, right?

It's definitely overheated.

Is it that the car can't handle so many people?

Maybe I should just bike back instead.

Don't worry.

The car overheating

has nothing to do with the extra weight.

It just needs to cool off.

What's wrong?

The spark plug wire snapped.

Can you fix it?

Can I fix it?

That's nothing.

Nothing.

He's excellent at fixing cars.

You'll see.

Comrade Yi,

don't underestimate my old buddy here.

This is a jeep captured from the Japanese.

This old buddy

has quite a history.

It served in the War of Resistance Against Japan

and the Liberation War.

If not for its condition,

it would have joined the Korean War.

Really?

Yes.

Look at these bullet holes.

It was hit by machine guns

and bombs,

and even ran over landmines.

Before

I came,

I already checked the car.

It's been repaired over 100 times.

Didn't expect

it would break down at such a critical moment.

They say Communist cadres are capable.

I didn't expect a leader like you...

You're a leader, right?

I...

I'm a district secretary.

You could say that.

Didn't expect a leader could fix cars.

Fixing cars is nothing.

We've fought in battles

and killed enemies.

My only regret is

never

serving in our country's

Navy or Air Force.

Otherwise...

Otherwise you'd want to fly planes

and repair warships?

Imagine me flying a plane—

that would be quite dashing.

What's so dashing?

How's the car?

Almost done. Just a moment.

Are you thirsty?

I'm fine.

Good.

Here,

look what I found.

Where did you get these?

Picked them from that tree over there.

I'm really thirsty.

There are only a few. Are you really going to eat them?

I just...

Ladies first.

I'll just take one.

Didn't you say you have sensitive teeth and are afraid of sourness?

Right.

I'm afraid of sourness.

Right.

Right.

Here, try it.

Try it.

How's it?

Sweet.

Oh, I didn't wash it.

I usually eat these things

without washing them.

It's fine.

I don't wash them either.

Why's it still smoking?

It's about done.

Secretary Zhao,

I can't eat anymore.

You can have it.

I...

I'm afraid of sourness.

It's sweet.

You...

can eat it now.

Alright then.

Okay.

I'll go wash my handkerchief over there.

No need.

Let me do it.

Sweet.

Sweet.

I'll be right back.

Ms. Yi.

Ms. Yi.

Let me wash it.

No need. I'll do it.

Let me.

Really.

Give it to me.

Minister Wen!

Are you okay?

I'm fine.

Don't come over.

Stay back.

Sorry for the embarrassment.

Washing a handkerchief,

but ended up washing my pants, socks, and shoes

all together.

At least the bucket's still here.

Don't.

Stay away, please.

I'll get up by myself.

Step back, please.

I'm sorry.

Alright.

If I had known this would happen,

I should've just taken it home to wash.

Comrade Yi,

do you know what I usually call him?

No idea.

Minister Wen?

Scholar.

A man of both pen and sword.

He can swim in rivers

and even climb trees.

Look—

bayberries.

I've never had such good bayberries.

And someone said...

they're sour.

These aren't for you.

Are they sour?

Eyes on the road.

I got it.

Don't you trust my driving?

By the way,

Scholar,

aren't your feet wet?

Why don't you

take off your shoes and dry them?

No one will laugh at you.

Ah, I see—

you're worried about

stinking up Ms. Yi, right?

Eyes on the road!

It's late and dark.

Someone's like a nagging wife,

even pinching me.

Quite strong.

Ouch!

That hurts!

Secretary Zhao, you sing so well.

Thank you.

Sing us another song, please.

Well, I'll really sing then.

Be careful not to lure the wolves out.

This road is rough. Let's go slowly.

Comrade Yi,

we soldiers aren't that particular.

Minister Wen's place

is even plainer.

You call this nice house plain?

Please.

Come in.

Look.

Quite fancy, isn't it?

Wen.

Scholar.

Look who's

here.

Minister Wen.

Welcome.

Please come in.

I brought some flowers.

Should we put them in water?

Sure. Do you have a vase?

A vase? Yes.

Hurry, find one.

This one will do.

Oh right.

And this one too.

Which looks better?

Back when we were in the army,

we often used this for flowers.

Let's use this one instead.

This one?

Good.

Let me do it.

I'll go to the kitchen

and take care of this.

Thanks, Zhao.

Without a woman in the house,

he just muddles through everything.

We'll make do.

Hurry.

Alright.

Come in, please.

Should I help in the kitchen?

No, no, no.

The kitchen is too small.

Can't fit that many people.

Please have a seat.

Okay.

Is this where you usually work?

Yes, this is my study.

Have a seat.

Shall we listen to a record?

Sure.

Rachmaninoff?

Yes.

Are you okay?

I'm sorry.

Are you alright?

It seems your chair doesn't welcome me.

How could that be?

Are you okay?

I'm fine.

Well,

sit over here instead.

This chair is sturdy.

You have so many books.

Yes,

my personal collection.

Is this bookshelf sturdy?

Of course it is.

I'm sorry.

I should have

thrown the chair away long ago.

I thought I could fix it and use it a bit longer.

Look, it's even given you trauma.

You know,

my childhood dream was to have many books

so I could read whichever one I wanted.

When I was little, I thought that just having books to read

would be the happiest thing.

Yes,

of course it would be.

Did you buy all these books after coming to Shanghai?

No,

well,

these thick ones on top

were

bought in Shanghai.

The ones at the bottom were all brought from the army.

You carried books even when you were in the army?

It became a habit.

From the very first day I enlisted,

I always stuffed a few books in my backpack.

Let me get you some tea.

Thank you.

[Jean-Christophe]

This is the newly released

fourth volume of Jean-Christophe, right?

Yes.

This was Zhaoyuan's favorite book when he was alive.

Sadly, he only made it to the third volume.

Have some water.

Thanks.

I brought a picture book for Yuanyuan.

Where's Yuanyuan?

The children are playing upstairs.

They'll come down when it's time for dinner.

Thank you.

Let's go downstairs to play with the toy guns.

What do you say, Yuanyuan?

Looks like they're coming down.

Here are our two birthday kids.

Yuanyuan, look who's here.

Hello, Ms. Yi.

Happy birthday to you.

Here, this is my birthday gift for you.

You can read it with Huzi later.

This is Secretary Zhao's son, Huzi.

It's his birthday too.

Hello, Huzi.

Happy day, Mrs. Yi.

What...

What are you calling her? Who taught you that?

Um... well...

Who taught you that?

My dad.

When did I ever teach you that?

Don't talk nonsense.

Just call me Ms. Yi.

Yes.

Happy day, Ms. Yi.

Happy birthday to you too.

Changjiang,

this is Ms. Yi Yi.

Hello, Ms. Yi.

Hello.

This is my son, Changjiang.

Hello, Changjiang.

You must be in middle school now, right?

I'm in high school.

I board at school.

My sister stays at kindergarten.

We both come home once every 2 weeks.

Today is my sister's birthday,

so I took a day off.

Right.

I'll take them out to play with toy guns.

Okay, Yuanyuan?

Let's go!

Alright, go have fun.

Slow down.

Ms. Fang's here.

Hangong.

I'm taking the children out to play.

Okay.

Yuanyuan.

Yuanyuan, let me see.

How pretty.

Ms. Fang.

Hello, Chief.

Come here.

Louder—greet the Chief properly.

Hello, Chief.

Hello, Ms. Chang.

Ms. Fang,

I need to talk to you.

Let's go to the study.

Come.

Okay.

Chang,

go help in the kitchen,

wash some vegetables and such.

Go on.

Alright.

You must be Ms. Yi.

Let's go to the kitchen together.

Okay.

Ms. Fang,

why did you bring Chang here?

I've already made it clear—

she and I aren't a good match.

Then why did you bring Yi Yi?

What's that supposed to mean?

We had an appointment.

Zhao Hangong and the two of us

decided to celebrate the kids' birthdays together.

It'll be lively.

Lively?

Really?

That's good then.

You'd better not have any ulterior motives.

Yi Yi is the kind of woman

you'd best keep your distance from.

Ms. Fang,

you're being too prejudiced against her.

What kind of woman is she?

Alright, let's not argue.

You're not dating her anyway,

right?

Right.

Just promise me.

You can go ahead with your work.

Ms. Yi and I will cook a couple of dishes.

That's very kind of you.

Alright then.

Can you cook?

A little bit.

Then crack a few eggs.

Okay.

Too slow. You need to be faster.

Your hands look so delicate.

You don't do much housework, do you?

Stop cutting.

You might cut yourself.

Your husband must have pampered you.

You're clearly used to being waited on.

Have you ever listened to symphony?

Minister Wen likes it.

I do too.

Like Johann Maninov,

Rachstrausky's waltz—

I can hum them all.

You mean Rachmaninoff

and Johann Strauss?

Yes.

Isn't that what I just told you?

You healthcare workers must have it tough.

How do you know I work at a hospital?

Did Minister Wen tell you?

No.

I see.

You smelled the Lysol on me, right?

Actually, I met Minister Wen on my own.

Director Fang's husband was hospitalized.

Minister Wen came to visit.

That's how we met.

Minister Wen

never mentioned me to you?

No.

That makes sense.

Personal relationships are

not something to discuss with outsiders.

I've heard Director Fang mention you.

To be honest, I feel sorry for you.

If I went through what you did at your age,

I probably couldn't handle it.

Chang does a beautiful job.

In Minister Wen's kitchen,

she acts like she's in her own home.

Isn't that right, Ms. Yi?

You're not much help standing here.

Let's step outside and talk.

You don't have to.

Dinner's almost ready.

Just stay here.

You can still help out.

It's fine.

Director Fang,

I can go talk with you.

Is there a problem?

Ms. Chang,

stop for a moment.

Let's talk in the study.

Okay?

You know I'm not well-educated.

Whatever you want to say, you can say it here.

Your kitchen is so spacious.

I really love kitchens.

I could stay here all day.

I'll wait for you in the study.

Come on.

Actually,

you should know what I want to talk to you about.

I don't know, Director Fang.

What kind of relationship

do you have

or rather, expect to have

with Minister Wen?

I have no expectations, Director Fang.

I don't think you quite understand.

Minister Wen's

feelings and marriage

are restricted by many factors.

He cannot do whatever he wants.

Jiang, catch them!

Hangong!

Hurry up.

What's going on?

Take them out to play.

Okay.

I'm...

I'm talking about serious matters here, okay?

Sorry to interrupt you.

Got you!

Where

was I just now?

You were saying his feelings and marriage

are restricted by many factors,

and he cannot...

Right.

He cannot do whatever he wants.

This isn't just about you

but applies to everyone.

Although you're not a Party member,

I hope you can be more honest.

You've read my diary.

I think I've been completely honest inside and out.

About your diary,

the organization has already apologized to you.

Can you please stop dwelling on this?

What I want to say is,

since you've read my diary,

you should understand

I don't have much time or energy

to think about other matters.

I just want to do my job well now

not worry about food and shelter,

and have a relatively stable creative environment.

That's enough for me.

I don't expect much

from life.

You

don't need to make it hard

for yourself.

At your prime age,

you have the right to enjoy happiness.

The Communist Party opposes feudal ethical concepts

like widowhood chastity.

Don't mind what Zhou says.

She's still young

and doesn't understand life.

So I hope

you'll start a family if you meet a suitable man.

I'll keep an eye out for you too.

However,

I hope you can lower your standards a bit.

Thank you, Director Fang.

I hope you'll go back and think it over.

You may go now.

Let's go.

Comrade Chang.

You can call me Huijuan,

or just Juan if you prefer.

That's what everyone calls me.

Comrade Chang,

if I've done anything

that gave you the wrong idea,

I apologize.

I can tell you clearly today

that between us,

there won't be anything beyond comradeship.

Do you understand?

Director Fang said you liked me

and you agreed to it.

Director Fang misunderstood me.

I never meant it that way.

I know.

My family is poor

and I'm not educated.

But isn't the Communist Party for the poor?

Would a Communist leader look down on someone like me?

You're a good comrade

and an excellent medical worker.

I respect you.

I've been working hard to study.

Lately I've been listening to symphonies—

I can even hum it now.

Then tell me,

what do I need to do to be worthy of you?

Comrade Chang,

we live in a new society.

No one should change themselves

just to suit someone else.

Do you understand?

No, that's not it.

You're not being sincere.

If I were educated and cultured,

would you still treat me this way?

Comrade Chang,

I believe

you'll find

a life partner who truly suits you.

What about Yi Yi then?

She's older than me.

and she's been married before.

She just had a few more days of education than me.

What do you see in her?

Why are you crying?

Director Fang,

I know Chief Wen doesn't like me.

He likes women like Yi Yi.

Where's Yi Yi?

I sent her away.

Ms. Fang,

what are you doing?

Yi Yi is my invited guest.

She came for the child's birthday.

She didn't even take a single bite.

Do...

Do you think that's appropriate?

Forget about Yi Yi.

Her stubborn personality

and that so-called artist temperament

are all time bombs

in your future relationship.

You don't understand her.

She's not the way you say she is.

Besides, there's nothing like

what you're suggesting between us.

Fine.

Tell me the truth.

Do you have feelings for Yi Yi or not?

If not,

give me your word,

then you can rest assured

that I won't interfere

in Yi Yi's matters anymore.

But one thing—

you cannot...

you cannot lie to me.

Rumei's been gone for years.

Have you ever looked at any other woman this way?

You think I don't know what's on your mind?

I just don't understand.

What's so good about Yi Yi?

You two are completely incompatible.

Well, intellectuals have one good quality:

they care about reputation.

I've already

made things

completely clear to her.

Yi Yi knows what to do.

What did you say to her?

Madam,

is dinner ready?

I'm hungry.

Come in.

Ms. Yi.

Stayed up late again?

I heard

the light in your room

was on all night yesterday.

Oh right,

I forgot.

You don't like being supervised.

It's fine.

Do you need something?

There's an urgent task.

Our city has an upcoming foreign affairs event.

Some important foreign guests will attend,

along with foreign journalists.

The city leaders require

every cadre at the event

to wear a suit.

But there aren't any ready-made ones.

They must be custom-made.

The city leadership

has mobilized all technicians

and designers in the city.

Our workshop has been assigned some work too.

Here's the personnel list.

Ms. Su,

I've never made men's clothing.

Besides, making suits requires expertise.

My skills aren't up to it.

This is a political task.

You must accept it.

I'll get busy now.

[Footprints of Change]

[Episode 16]

Actually, all I wanted was

to keep her company.

I was afraid she'd be lonely

or that she'd be bullied.

Who knew she would react so strongly?

Actually,

I get what Yang meant.

He's just worried your sister-in-law

might fall for some shady man

and tarnish

the name of a martyr's widow.

Right?

Mr. Yang definitely meant well.

I know

my brother and sister-in-law truly loved each other.

She would never love another man.

Director Fang,

what do you think?

I don't know.

So you're saying

she might fall for another man?

Hard to say.

Then I'll go talk to her!

Well,

are you suggesting

that you expect her to remain a widow

for the rest of her life?

You're a Communist Youth League member.

This kind of idea isn't right.

It's feudal thinking

that should be criticized.

But I just can't get over it.

The thought of her with another man…

I...

I feel uncomfortable.

It upsets me.

You understand me, right?

Young comrade,

you're quite adorable.

Director Fang says I'm adorable.

Ms. Yi,

may I share my thoughts

about this design draft?

Of course.

I might not be right.

I actually wanted to say this last time.

I think this design

isn't quite complete yet.

On the surface, it looks fine,

but somehow it lacks a bit of...

character.

Ms. Su,

I feel the same.

That's why I've been delaying submission.

I've been stuck at home lately,

no inspiration at all.

Then get out for a walk.

Haven't you been out for a long time?

Is that allowed?

Of course it is.

That's great!

My bike's broken.

I'll get it fixed tomorrow.

Okay.

What are you doing?

Fixing the bike.

Xiurong said

the chain fell off.

Turns out the tire's flat too.

Where did you ride this nice bike to,

getting it like this?

To the mountains.

The mountains?

How did you get the bike back?

I carried it.

You?

Yes, me.

Once I fix this bike,

no matter how you ride it in the future,

the chain won't come off again.

Don't carry it next time.

With those skinny arms and legs,

you might fall into a ditch.

Are you worried about me?

Yes.

But you're not fixing my bike.

You—

You're lying.

This is your bike.

Are you kidding me?

Don't touch it.

It's dirty.

Scholar.

Haven't had hot oil noodles for a long time, right?

Yeah.

What's up?

Do you remember Sun from the mess hall?

I do.

He made the best hot oil noodles.

His whole family has moved here.

They moved to Shanghai?

Yes.

Really?

Really.

Where?

Right under the bridge.

Look.

-It's over there. -That one.

We can't show up empty-handed.

There was a pastry shop on the way.

Here.

Buy some snacks for the kids.

I have money.

Come on, put that away.

You really do?

I'll go. I'll go.

Okay.

You go ahead first.

Is the pen good to use?

Minister...

Minister Wen, what...

What are you doing here?

An old comrade opened a noodle shop here.

We came for a bowl of noodles.

I saw you drawing from a distance,

so I came over to take a look.

You haven't answered my question yet.

What question?

The pen,

is it good?

It's good.

I've been using it a lot lately.

Did you draw this?

May I see it?

Just a casual sketch.

You like drawing people?

I think sometimes people,

in their natural, lively moments,

really move me.

I don't know art,

but I believe everything in this world is connected.

Every piece of work

reflects the creator's state of mind at that moment.

Am I right?

You draw very well.

You always support me.

Actually,

your support means a lot to me.

There have been many times when I felt

I couldn't go on anymore.

But then I think,

there's still someone like you, a leader who's cultured,

well-mannered and selfless,

and I'd feel at peace.

At least there's still someone

who understands people like us.

Scholar,

I was wondering where you went.

Turns out here you are, hiding...

hiding such a beauty.

Don't talk nonsense!

That's not funny!

Do you know who she is?

I told you about Zhou Zhaoyuan.

This is his wife, Ms. Yi Yi.

Apologize to her.

No need.

No, no.

I should apologize.

I'm sorry,

Ms. Zhou.

No, I mean,

Ms. Yi, right?

You know,

our comrades who worked underground

deserve great respect,

and their families

are even more admirable.

I'm sorry,

I spoke too rashly.

It's fine.

Well,

I'm Zhao Hangong,

Wen's comrade-in-arms.

We've been through life and death together.

Hello.

Hello.

Hello.

Did you buy the gift?

Yes, I did.

So let's...

Shall we...

How about

we go to my old comrade's noodle shop

for a bowl of noodles?

Have some noodles.

Yes.

It's quite special.

-Let's go together. -The noodles are so good.

I'll... I'll go ahead.

I'll go first

to order.

Let's go.

Let me take it.

Sun's cooking

looks great.

Not bad.

Ms. Yi,

wait, you need to mix it first.

Mix it well before eating.

It tastes better that way.

Not like that.

Well,

let me help.

Come on.

You see,

with hot oil noodles,

mixing is the key.

You need to mix it hard.

It tastes better when everything is fully blended.

Here.

-Thank you, Minister Wen. -Try it.

After finishing the noodles, have a bowl of soup.

What boils together, digests together.

Perfect match.

Okay.

Comrade Yi.

Um, you don't mind

if I call you that, do you?

Go ahead, Comrade Zhao.

Alright then.

Actually,

Wen really put in a lot of effort

in confirming

Comrade Zhaoyuan's identity.

It wasn't easy at all.

Zhao,

can we not talk about this?

Eat.

Minister Wen,

let Comrade Zhao finish.

I'd like to know more about Zhaoyuan too.

I'm just telling the truth.

Wen

had all of us

investigate

Comrade Zhou Zhaoyuan's identity.

We went to the local archives

and reviewed many documents.

Honestly,

without Wen's help,

confirming Zhaoyuan's identity

would have taken forever.

So you helped confirm Zhaoyuan's identity?

Actually, at first

I learned from you that

Comrade Zhaoyuan had excellent artistic taste.

Later, I happened to chat with Fu Zihe

and found out

that he lived very frugally.

Once when they were having a meal together,

he noticed

that Zhaoyuan's sock had a hole in it

which he had mended himself.

His sock had a hole in it?

I didn't even know that.

Also,

we learned that

among the high-ranking KMT officers,

there are many of our own comrades

who are frugal

and highly cultured.

Following that lead,

I found him

and proved that

your husband, Comrade Zhaoyuan,

was one of us.

I want to thank you on behalf of Zhaoyuan,

and for Qing and myself as well.

Eat now.

The noodles will get sticky soon.

Thank you.

I... I want some soup too.

Okay.

Here's for you.

Okay, thanks.

Perfect match indeed.

By the way,

Yuanyuan's birthday

is in a couple of days,

right?

How do you know?

My son told me.

Oh, right.

Isn't it just one day apart from Huzi's birthday?

Now I remember.

That's true.

Then...

Let them celebrate together.

Yes, bring Huzi over

and let the kids celebrate their birthdays together.

Yi,

would you like to join us?

Me?

Yes,

why don't you come along?

You know

my daughter Yuanyuan anyway.

Come celebrate her birthday.

Join us.

You already know each other.

Can you drive slower?

It's too bumpy.

Wen,

you never used to complain

when you've ridden in my car all this time.

Slow down.

Slow down?

Alright.

I'll slow down.

Uh-oh. Broke down again.

Hold on.

Overheated, right?

It's definitely overheated.

Is it that the car can't handle so many people?

Maybe I should just bike back instead.

Don't worry.

The car overheating

has nothing to do with the extra weight.

It just needs to cool off.

What's wrong?

The spark plug wire snapped.

Can you fix it?

Can I fix it?

That's nothing.

Nothing.

He's excellent at fixing cars.

You'll see.

Comrade Yi,

don't underestimate my old buddy here.

This is a jeep captured from the Japanese.

This old buddy

has quite a history.

It served in the War of Resistance Against Japan

and the Liberation War.

If not for its condition,

it would have joined the Korean War.

Really?

Yes.

Look at these bullet holes.

It was hit by machine guns

and bombs,

and even ran over landmines.

Before

I came,

I already checked the car.

It's been repaired over 100 times.

Didn't expect

it would break down at such a critical moment.

They say Communist cadres are capable.

I didn't expect a leader like you...

You're a leader, right?

I...

I'm a district secretary.

You could say that.

Didn't expect a leader could fix cars.

Fixing cars is nothing.

We've fought in battles

and killed enemies.

My only regret is

never

serving in our country's

Navy or Air Force.

Otherwise...

Otherwise you'd want to fly planes

and repair warships?

Imagine me flying a plane—

that would be quite dashing.

What's so dashing?

How's the car?

Almost done. Just a moment.

Are you thirsty?

I'm fine.

Good.

Here,

look what I found.

Where did you get these?

Picked them from that tree over there.

I'm really thirsty.

There are only a few. Are you really going to eat them?

I just...

Ladies first.

I'll just take one.

Didn't you say you have sensitive teeth and are afraid of sourness?

Right.

I'm afraid of sourness.

Right.

Right.

Here, try it.

Try it.

How's it?

Sweet.

Oh, I didn't wash it.

I usually eat these things

without washing them.

It's fine.

I don't wash them either.

Why's it still smoking?

It's about done.

Secretary Zhao,

I can't eat anymore.

You can have it.

I...

I'm afraid of sourness.

It's sweet.

You...

can eat it now.

Alright then.

Okay.

I'll go wash my handkerchief over there.

No need.

Let me do it.

Sweet.

Sweet.

I'll be right back.

Ms. Yi.

Ms. Yi.

Let me wash it.

No need. I'll do it.

Let me.

Really.

Give it to me.

Minister Wen!

Are you okay?

I'm fine.

Don't come over.

Stay back.

Sorry for the embarrassment.

Washing a handkerchief,

but ended up washing my pants, socks, and shoes

all together.

At least the bucket's still here.

Don't.

Stay away, please.

I'll get up by myself.

Step back, please.

I'm sorry.

Alright.

If I had known this would happen,

I should've just taken it home to wash.

Comrade Yi,

do you know what I usually call him?

No idea.

Minister Wen?

Scholar.

A man of both pen and sword.

He can swim in rivers

and even climb trees.

Look—

bayberries.

I've never had such good bayberries.

And someone said...

they're sour.

These aren't for you.

Are they sour?

Eyes on the road.

I got it.

Don't you trust my driving?

By the way,

Scholar,

aren't your feet wet?

Why don't you

take off your shoes and dry them?

No one will laugh at you.

Ah, I see—

you're worried about

stinking up Ms. Yi, right?

Eyes on the road!

It's late and dark.

Someone's like a nagging wife,

even pinching me.

Quite strong.

Ouch!

That hurts!

Secretary Zhao, you sing so well.

Thank you.

Sing us another song, please.

Well, I'll really sing then.

Be careful not to lure the wolves out.

This road is rough. Let's go slowly.

Comrade Yi,

we soldiers aren't that particular.

Minister Wen's place

is even plainer.

You call this nice house plain?

Please.

Come in.

Look.

Quite fancy, isn't it?

Wen.

Scholar.

Look who's

here.

Minister Wen.

Welcome.

Please come in.

I brought some flowers.

Should we put them in water?

Sure. Do you have a vase?

A vase? Yes.

Hurry, find one.

This one will do.

Oh right.

And this one too.

Which looks better?

Back when we were in the army,

we often used this for flowers.

Let's use this one instead.

This one?

Good.

Let me do it.

I'll go to the kitchen

and take care of this.

Thanks, Zhao.

Without a woman in the house,

he just muddles through everything.

We'll make do.

Hurry.

Alright.

Come in, please.

Should I help in the kitchen?

No, no, no.

The kitchen is too small.

Can't fit that many people.

Please have a seat.

Okay.

Is this where you usually work?

Yes, this is my study.

Have a seat.

Shall we listen to a record?

Sure.

Rachmaninoff?

Yes.

Are you okay?

I'm sorry.

Are you alright?

It seems your chair doesn't welcome me.

How could that be?

Are you okay?

I'm fine.

Well,

sit over here instead.

This chair is sturdy.

You have so many books.

Yes,

my personal collection.

Is this bookshelf sturdy?

Of course it is.

I'm sorry.

I should have

thrown the chair away long ago.

I thought I could fix it and use it a bit longer.

Look, it's even given you trauma.

You know,

my childhood dream was to have many books

so I could read whichever one I wanted.

When I was little, I thought that just having books to read

would be the happiest thing.

Yes,

of course it would be.

Did you buy all these books after coming to Shanghai?

No,

well,

these thick ones on top

were

bought in Shanghai.

The ones at the bottom were all brought from the army.

You carried books even when you were in the army?

It became a habit.

From the very first day I enlisted,

I always stuffed a few books in my backpack.

Let me get you some tea.

Thank you.

[Jean-Christophe]

This is the newly released

fourth volume of Jean-Christophe, right?

Yes.

This was Zhaoyuan's favorite book when he was alive.

Sadly, he only made it to the third volume.

Have some water.

Thanks.

I brought a picture book for Yuanyuan.

Where's Yuanyuan?

The children are playing upstairs.

They'll come down when it's time for dinner.

Thank you.

Let's go downstairs to play with the toy guns.

What do you say, Yuanyuan?

Looks like they're coming down.

Here are our two birthday kids.

Yuanyuan, look who's here.

Hello, Ms. Yi.

Happy birthday to you.

Here, this is my birthday gift for you.

You can read it with Huzi later.

This is Secretary Zhao's son, Huzi.

It's his birthday too.

Hello, Huzi.

Happy day, Mrs. Yi.

What...

What are you calling her? Who taught you that?

Um... well...

Who taught you that?

My dad.

When did I ever teach you that?

Don't talk nonsense.

Just call me Ms. Yi.

Yes.

Happy day, Ms. Yi.

Happy birthday to you too.

Changjiang,

this is Ms. Yi Yi.

Hello, Ms. Yi.

Hello.

This is my son, Changjiang.

Hello, Changjiang.

You must be in middle school now, right?

I'm in high school.

I board at school.

My sister stays at kindergarten.

We both come home once every 2 weeks.

Today is my sister's birthday,

so I took a day off.

Right.

I'll take them out to play with toy guns.

Okay, Yuanyuan?

Let's go!

Alright, go have fun.

Slow down.

Ms. Fang's here.

Hangong.

I'm taking the children out to play.

Okay.

Yuanyuan.

Yuanyuan, let me see.

How pretty.

Ms. Fang.

Hello, Chief.

Come here.

Louder—greet the Chief properly.

Hello, Chief.

Hello, Ms. Chang.

Ms. Fang,

I need to talk to you.

Let's go to the study.

Come.

Okay.

Chang,

go help in the kitchen,

wash some vegetables and such.

Go on.

Alright.

You must be Ms. Yi.

Let's go to the kitchen together.

Okay.

Ms. Fang,

why did you bring Chang here?

I've already made it clear—

she and I aren't a good match.

Then why did you bring Yi Yi?

What's that supposed to mean?

We had an appointment.

Zhao Hangong and the two of us

decided to celebrate the kids' birthdays together.

It'll be lively.

Lively?

Really?

That's good then.

You'd better not have any ulterior motives.

Yi Yi is the kind of woman

you'd best keep your distance from.

Ms. Fang,

you're being too prejudiced against her.

What kind of woman is she?

Alright, let's not argue.

You're not dating her anyway,

right?

Right.

Just promise me.

You can go ahead with your work.

Ms. Yi and I will cook a couple of dishes.

That's very kind of you.

Alright then.

Can you cook?

A little bit.

Then crack a few eggs.

Okay.

Too slow. You need to be faster.

Your hands look so delicate.

You don't do much housework, do you?

Stop cutting.

You might cut yourself.

Your husband must have pampered you.

You're clearly used to being waited on.

Have you ever listened to symphony?

Minister Wen likes it.

I do too.

Like Johann Maninov,

Rachstrausky's waltz—

I can hum them all.

You mean Rachmaninoff

and Johann Strauss?

Yes.

Isn't that what I just told you?

You healthcare workers must have it tough.

How do you know I work at a hospital?

Did Minister Wen tell you?

No.

I see.

You smelled the Lysol on me, right?

Actually, I met Minister Wen on my own.

Director Fang's husband was hospitalized.

Minister Wen came to visit.

That's how we met.

Minister Wen

never mentioned me to you?

No.

That makes sense.

Personal relationships are

not something to discuss with outsiders.

I've heard Director Fang mention you.

To be honest, I feel sorry for you.

If I went through what you did at your age,

I probably couldn't handle it.

Chang does a beautiful job.

In Minister Wen's kitchen,

she acts like she's in her own home.

Isn't that right, Ms. Yi?

You're not much help standing here.

Let's step outside and talk.

You don't have to.

Dinner's almost ready.

Just stay here.

You can still help out.

It's fine.

Director Fang,

I can go talk with you.

Is there a problem?

Ms. Chang,

stop for a moment.

Let's talk in the study.

Okay?

You know I'm not well-educated.

Whatever you want to say, you can say it here.

Your kitchen is so spacious.

I really love kitchens.

I could stay here all day.

I'll wait for you in the study.

Come on.

Actually,

you should know what I want to talk to you about.

I don't know, Director Fang.

What kind of relationship

do you have

or rather, expect to have

with Minister Wen?

I have no expectations, Director Fang.

I don't think you quite understand.

Minister Wen's

feelings and marriage

are restricted by many factors.

He cannot do whatever he wants.

Jiang, catch them!

Hangong!

Hurry up.

What's going on?

Take them out to play.

Okay.

I'm...

I'm talking about serious matters here, okay?

Sorry to interrupt you.

Got you!

Where

was I just now?

You were saying his feelings and marriage

are restricted by many factors,

and he cannot...

Right.

He cannot do whatever he wants.

This isn't just about you

but applies to everyone.

Although you're not a Party member,

I hope you can be more honest.

You've read my diary.

I think I've been completely honest inside and out.

About your diary,

the organization has already apologized to you.

Can you please stop dwelling on this?

What I want to say is,

since you've read my diary,

you should understand

I don't have much time or energy

to think about other matters.

I just want to do my job well now

not worry about food and shelter,

and have a relatively stable creative environment.

That's enough for me.

I don't expect much

from life.

You

don't need to make it hard

for yourself.

At your prime age,

you have the right to enjoy happiness.

The Communist Party opposes feudal ethical concepts

like widowhood chastity.

Don't mind what Zhou says.

She's still young

and doesn't understand life.

So I hope

you'll start a family if you meet a suitable man.

I'll keep an eye out for you too.

However,

I hope you can lower your standards a bit.

Thank you, Director Fang.

I hope you'll go back and think it over.

You may go now.

Let's go.

Comrade Chang.

You can call me Huijuan,

or just Juan if you prefer.

That's what everyone calls me.

Comrade Chang,

if I've done anything

that gave you the wrong idea,

I apologize.

I can tell you clearly today

that between us,

there won't be anything beyond comradeship.

Do you understand?

Director Fang said you liked me

and you agreed to it.

Director Fang misunderstood me.

I never meant it that way.

I know.

My family is poor

and I'm not educated.

But isn't the Communist Party for the poor?

Would a Communist leader look down on someone like me?

You're a good comrade

and an excellent medical worker.

I respect you.

I've been working hard to study.

Lately I've been listening to symphonies—

I can even hum it now.

Then tell me,

what do I need to do to be worthy of you?

Comrade Chang,

we live in a new society.

No one should change themselves

just to suit someone else.

Do you understand?

No, that's not it.

You're not being sincere.

If I were educated and cultured,

would you still treat me this way?

Comrade Chang,

I believe

you'll find

a life partner who truly suits you.

What about Yi Yi then?

She's older than me.

and she's been married before.

She just had a few more days of education than me.

What do you see in her?

Why are you crying?

Director Fang,

I know Chief Wen doesn't like me.

He likes women like Yi Yi.

Where's Yi Yi?

I sent her away.

Ms. Fang,

what are you doing?

Yi Yi is my invited guest.

She came for the child's birthday.

She didn't even take a single bite.

Do...

Do you think that's appropriate?

Forget about Yi Yi.

Her stubborn personality

and that so-called artist temperament

are all time bombs

in your future relationship.

You don't understand her.

She's not the way you say she is.

Besides, there's nothing like

what you're suggesting between us.

Fine.

Tell me the truth.

Do you have feelings for Yi Yi or not?

If not,

give me your word,

then you can rest assured

that I won't interfere

in Yi Yi's matters anymore.

But one thing—

you cannot...

you cannot lie to me.

Rumei's been gone for years.

Have you ever looked at any other woman this way?

You think I don't know what's on your mind?

I just don't understand.

What's so good about Yi Yi?

You two are completely incompatible.

Well, intellectuals have one good quality:

they care about reputation.

I've already

made things

completely clear to her.

Yi Yi knows what to do.

What did you say to her?

Madam,

is dinner ready?

I'm hungry.

Come in.

Ms. Yi.

Stayed up late again?

I heard

the light in your room

was on all night yesterday.

Oh right,

I forgot.

You don't like being supervised.

It's fine.

Do you need something?

There's an urgent task.

Our city has an upcoming foreign affairs event.

Some important foreign guests will attend,

along with foreign journalists.

The city leaders require

every cadre at the event

to wear a suit.

But there aren't any ready-made ones.

They must be custom-made.

The city leadership

has mobilized all technicians

and designers in the city.

Our workshop has been assigned some work too.

Here's the personnel list.

Ms. Su,

I've never made men's clothing.

Besides, making suits requires expertise.

My skills aren't up to it.

This is a political task.

You must accept it.

I'll get busy now.