The White Olive Tree Recap, Plot, Synopsis

The White Olive Tree Synopsis

Song Ran, a female reporter from Liangcheng TV, encounters danger while on an interview assignment in a turbulent Eastern country. Fortunately, she is rescued by Li Zan, a Chinese-American explosive engineer volunteering in the East. Li Zan's gentle nature and his heart full of love deeply attract Song Ran. Through their many interactions, Li Zan discovers that although Song Ran appears fragile on the outside, she is actually brave, strong, and has a heart full of justice and kindness. Their shared ideals and compatible souls spark a budding romance.

However, a sudden explosion cuts short their growing relationship. After returning to their respective countries, both fall into low points in their lives and lose contact with each other. Li Zan feels guilty for the loss of his friend, who sacrificed himself to save Li Zan during the explosion. Meanwhile, Song Ran faces controversy due to a photograph she took during the attack. Both endure emotional and physical pain.

By chance, they are reunited, and gradually, their lives begin to get back on track. Together, they plant the seeds of a white olive tree.

The White Olive Tree Recap

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Song Ran came to Dongguo to work as a journalist. During her time there, she experienced many unforgettable moments. On the day she was about to leave, Song Ran felt very reluctant to say goodbye. Reina sent her some snacks, and her son took a photo to send back. She was very happy and asked Song Ran to help take a photo for her son. While she was watching, Song Ran saw an explosion in the distance and was deeply shocked.

Song Ran went to the rooftop to prepare for a live broadcast. She received a call from the station, telling her that the cameraman was stuck on the road and wouldn't be able to make it. Therefore, the live broadcast would have to be done by her alone. Just as the explosion occurred, Song Ran was hurt by the shockwave. But there was no time to treat her injury, so she immediately started the live broadcast and reported the situation.

Her leader thought she did a good job, but the team leader was dismissive, saying that this was just a basic requirement for a journalist, and if you couldn’t do it, then you shouldn’t be a journalist at all. When Song Ran was riding her bike, she didn't hear Li Zan telling her to stop. She accidentally stepped on a landmine. Li Zan arrived and Song Ran begged him to save her.

Li Zan reassured her, saying he wouldn’t let her be blown up. He checked the landmine and comforted her. Li Zan’s companion pointed out that there was a mother mine and four sub-mines in the area. Song Ran accused Li Zan of lying to her. Li Zan removed the dirt, revealing the mine. There were 8 minutes left on the timer.

Song Ran told Li Zan to hurry and leave, saying she didn’t want to drag him down with her to die there. Li Zan told her to trust him. Li Zan asked Song Ran how far she could run in five seconds. Song Ran replied that she didn’t know, as she had never run that fast before.

Li Zan said that today she would have the chance to try, and he would try to buy her an additional five seconds, allowing her to run as far as she could. Once the countdown ended, Song Ran quickly ran, and the landmine exploded. Li Zan shielded her, and fortunately, neither of them was hurt.

Li Zan’s companion arrived and said that this kind of thing should be handled by soldiers, not by Li Zan, who was just a volunteer mine-clearer. Song Ran discovered that Li Zan could speak Chinese. Li Zan’s companion explained that he was from Dongguo and was of Chinese descent. He had been to China when he was a child. Song Ran was scheduled to fly back to China at 3 PM that afternoon, but the road ahead was blocked.

Li Zan suggested that she go to a repatriation station in the western suburbs' industrial park. They were evacuating people there today, and he could take her to that place. On the way, Song Ran got into the car, only to realize that Li Zan’s bracelet had accidentally gotten caught on her backpack. She wanted to call him over to remove it, but he didn’t hear her, and the car drove off.

Upon arriving at her father’s house, Song Ran’s father praised her for the report, saying it was very well done, as expected of his daughter. He asked what her mother had said. Song Ran replied that her mother didn’t say much. Her father, displeased, expressed that he didn’t believe he could raise her well on his own.

Her stepmother told him to say less, and Song Ran, seeing them enjoying their family moment, decided to leave early, saying she couldn’t stay for dinner. Song Ran had asked many people but still hadn’t found any information about the volunteer. Her friend reminded her that the person might not be Chinese, but of Chinese descent. Her team leader knew people in international organizations, so Song Ran should ask him.

There was a leak in the renovation upstairs, and the worker came to see Song Ran. She didn’t understand much, so she just followed his advice. The man said that sometimes when you try too hard, you can't find something, but when you stop looking, it unexpectedly shows up. Song Ran went to her team leader for help. He gave her a business card and suggested she try contacting the person on it. Song Ran then went to see Luo Zhan. Luo Zhan told her that there were too many volunteers, and he didn’t know all of them.

Song Ran went to find her team leader’s friend, hoping to gather information about Li Zan. She was initially disappointed when she found nothing, but just as she was leaving, Li Zan suddenly appeared. It turned out that Li Zan was good friends with Luo Zhan, who was also Shen Bei’s friend. However, Li Zan seemed to have no recollection of their past encounter. Seeing Li Zan again, Song Ran was overwhelmed with excitement.

She tried various ways to gather more information about him and learned that his parents lived in Liangcheng—the same city as hers. Whenever he had the chance, he would return to stay with them for a while. Eventually, she couldn’t hold back any longer and asked Li Zan if he remembered saving her. Li Zan openly admitted it, explaining that he hadn’t brought it up earlier because he wasn’t sure whether that memory would be traumatic for her.

While having a meal with Luo Zhan, Li Zan still couldn’t help but watch Song Ran’s videos. Luo Zhan invited Li Zan to help him with something after completing his volunteer work, and Li Zan agreed. Noticing Luo Zhan’s excessive praise, Li Zan quickly realized that Luo Zhan had a favor to ask. Seeing that his intentions had been exposed, Luo Zhan straightforwardly asked Li Zan what he thought about journalism.

At that moment, an image of Song Ran flashed through Li Zan’s mind, and he described journalists based on his impression of her. At the TV station, the leadership decided to have Song Ran and her team leader, Shen Bei, compete with their respective topics for the next month’s front-page feature. Song Ran felt uneasy about it, as she had no intention of stepping on Shen Bei’s position.

However, Shen Bei said that fair competition was the norm, and everyone had to rely on their abilities to secure opportunities. On the weekend, Song Ran had no reason to see Li Zan, so she used the excuse of returning his umbrella. She placed it on his car and waited inside her own vehicle until he finally appeared. Only then did she happily get out to greet him.

Song Ran had been looking forward to seeing Li Zan, but when they finally met, she found herself feeling nervous. Suddenly, Li Zan brought up the red string bracelet. Song Ran was a bit surprised and didn’t want to return it just yet, so she deliberately claimed she didn’t have it with her. Using an interview as an excuse, she managed to get Li Zan’s phone number.

As they were about to part ways, Li Zan pointed out an error in one of her video segments. Song Ran was thrilled—this meant he had genuinely watched her program. Back home, Song Ran’s mother was dissatisfied with her video, commenting that while it might be good enough for a TV station, it was far from making a national impact. Having never received her mother’s approval, Song Ran felt disappointed and left the house under a random excuse.

At the office, Shen Bei reviewed Song Ran’s topic and found it impressive. She had initially suspected that Song Ran was scheming against her, but after piecing together some clues, she realized that Song Ran wasn’t playing any tricks. That evening, Song Ran had dinner with her mother. She told her that even though she didn’t like her videos, there were still people who did.

Their conversation was sharp and filled with strict words, as their relationship had always been tense. However, deep down, they cared for each other—especially Song Ran’s mother, who was about to leave by plane and strongly insisted that Song Ran see her off at the airport. When the TV station announced the list of top journalists of the year, Song Ran’s friends believed she should have been selected. However, the leadership declared that the award would go to Shen Bei.

Shen Bei invited the production team for a meal and specially reserved a seat, announcing that her boyfriend would be joining them. She revealed that he was a volunteer mine-clearer in Dongguo. Upon hearing this, Song Ran was shocked and couldn’t believe it. But when Li Zan walked in, she had no choice but to accept the truth. Overcome with emotions, she quickly found an excuse to leave.

Seeing Song Ran walk out, Li Zan also found an excuse and followed her. Outside the private dining room, they met again. Song Ran didn’t say much—she simply returned the red string bracelet to him and then left. Shen Bei was captivated by Li Zan’s unique personality and expressed her admiration for him. She even told her father about it. Song Ran returned to Dongguo once more.

This time, her team specially assigned Sa Xin, a person of Chinese descent, to receive her. She was arranged to stay at a military camp. Early the next morning, as she was preparing to go out and film, a group of mercenaries spotted her. Their leader, a Chinese-descended man, approached her with a mocking and sarcastic greeting.

During the two months back in Dongguo, Song Ran's life became incredibly rich and fulfilling. Each day, she absorbed new knowledge and experiences like a sponge. One day, as she was sharing the simple joy of washing her hair with rice water with Jiang Lin, an unexpected figure—Li Zan—quietly appeared in her line of sight. Song Ran looked up in shock, her eyes meeting Li Zan’s. She had not anticipated encountering him at that moment.

Li Zan approached her with a gentle smile and softly asked if she needed a comb. This unexpected act of kindness warmed Song Ran’s heart. Following Li Zan’s lead, Song Ran stepped into his dormitory. The room was simple and tidy, exuding a sense of masculine order and discipline. Li Zan took out a brand-new towel from his cabinet and was about to hand it to her, but Song Ran hesitated.

Not wanting to trouble him, she politely declined the towel, worried she might dirty it, and instead asked only to borrow the comb. Li Zan nodded with a smile and handed it to her. As Song Ran combed her damp hair, she curiously asked why Li Zan was there. He explained that his volunteer hours were not yet complete—his previous stay had been just a temporary rest.

Now, he had returned to this challenging and opportunity-filled place to continue fulfilling his mission. Hearing his explanation, Song Ran felt a surge of admiration for him. She quickly packed up her things and prepared to leave. Seeing her rushing off, Jiang Lin asked with concern what was wrong. Song Ran simply shook her head with a smile, assuring him she was fine. The next day, Song Ran followed Li Zan and his team on a demining mission.

Jiang Lin, worried for her safety, repeatedly reminded her not to step onto unexplored paths. Li Zan jokingly remarked that if anything happened, it would be Jiang Lin’s responsibility. With a resigned smile, Jiang Lin assigned Song Ran to stay close to Li Zan, making him responsible for looking after her. During the demining task, Li Zan demonstrated exceptional professionalism and a calm demeanor. He keenly noticed a grenade hidden beneath a landmine and quickly commanded his teammates to retreat.

Song Ran nervously recorded the scene while Li Zan carefully disarmed the grenade. Noticing her filming, he smiled, took the camera from her hands, and personally captured the intense yet invaluable moment for her. Amid their busy work, a doctor hurried over, urgently stating that she needed to go into the village to retrieve antivenom to save a patient. Jiang Lin firmly opposed the idea, as the area was still being cleared of explosives and was too dangerous.

The doctor anxiously explained that the hospital had run out of the serum, and only the village clinic had it. She estimated that it would take her ten minutes to get there, but if she couldn’t retrieve the serum within half an hour, the patient’s life would be at risk. Upon hearing this, Li Zan immediately stepped forward, offering to retrieve the serum himself. He then asked for the patient’s name.

Song Ran quickly handed over her notebook, and the doctor wrote the name down. It was only then that she realized Song Ran’s identity. Introducing herself, she said her name was Pei Xiaonan, and she was a doctor. Suddenly, a distant explosion sounded, making Song Ran’s heart tighten. However, Jiang Lin remained calm, stating that it was likely Li Zan handling an explosive detonation. Before long, Li Zan safely returned with the serum. Pei Xiaonan was overwhelmed with gratitude.

An elderly man also came over to thank Li Zan for saving his life and offered him some snacks as a token of appreciation. Although Li Zan wasn’t fond of snacks, he accepted them, knowing that doing so would make the old man happy. During a break in the demining work, Song Ran saw two children playing. A little girl named Siya approached her, claiming that a boy had taken her ring.

Song Ran patiently listened and learned that the ring was a wedding gift from Siya’s mother, making it extremely precious to her. However, the boy insisted that the ring belonged to him, leading to a dispute between them. Siya confided in Song Ran about her desire to learn demining—her dog had been killed in an explosion. Coincidentally, Li Zan had recently found a stray dog and had given it to her as a form of comfort.

When Siya asked if he missed the dog, Li Zan handed her his badge as a keepsake, telling her she could come find him anytime. Watching this scene unfold, Song Ran’s admiration for Li Zan deepened even further. Meanwhile, the team leader expressed interest in traveling to Dongguo. At the same time, Song Ran was preparing an interview plan aimed at speaking with demining experts. Jiang Lin suggested interviewing Li Zan, but Song Ran, feeling shy and nervous, hesitated to take on the challenge.

Song Ran returned to her residence, still reflecting on Li Zan’s earlier words. Those words were like a lighthouse in the fog, leaving her both puzzled and curious. At that moment, the mercenary leader, Benjamin, happened to run into Song Ran while she was buying apples. Smiling, he approached her and attempted to strike up a conversation. However, Song Ran already understood his intentions.

She told him directly that she preferred a simple pastoral life—growing vegetables was far less complicated and much purer than dealing with intricate human relationships. Seeing her firm stance, Benjamin did not insist and instead offered to escort her home. Song Ran politely declined, explaining that she lived nearby and there was no need to trouble him. While Song Ran wasn’t paying attention, Benjamin secretly took an apple.

Sa Xin witnessed the act and immediately called him a thief, demanding that he return the apple. Instead of getting angry, Benjamin provocatively questioned Sa Xin’s disdain for mercenaries, even mocking him by saying that if Sa Xin’s country were strong enough, it wouldn’t need to hire mercenaries for assistance. Hearing this, Sa Xin’s expression darkened, his anger surging. Song Ran, drawn by the commotion, asked Benjamin about the apple.

Benjamin tried to argue that it had simply fallen, but Song Ran easily saw through his lie—the apple was unblemished, showing no signs of a fall. Without further confrontation, she took Sa Xin with her and advised him not to take Benjamin’s words to heart. Though Sa Xin outwardly claimed to be furious, he couldn’t deny that Benjamin’s words held some truth, which only made him more frustrated.

Just then, Raina arrived with a basket of fruit, saying they were from her son. Song Ran immediately recognized them as the same fruit Sa Xin had handled earlier and suddenly realized that Raina’s son was, in fact, Sa Xin. Sa Xin was confused by his mother’s secretive approach to meeting him. Raina, with no other choice, revealed the truth—she didn’t want people to know that Sa Xin had a mother like her, fearing it might affect his future.

Furthermore, Sa Xin’s father also disapproved of their meetings. She pleaded with Song Ran to keep this secret. Song Ran agreed but also shared her own perspective—there was nothing shameful about it. Later, Song Ran and Sa Xin worked together to deliver essential supplies to the local residents. The experience brought Song Ran an unprecedented sense of joy; for the first time, she felt she had truly made a tangible difference in people’s lives.

From a kind elderly woman, Song Ran received a meaningful gift—seeds of a white olive tree. Li Zan had once told her that olive trees symbolized peace, yet in this land of Dongguo, ravaged by sandstorms, olive trees struggled to survive, appearing dim and lifeless. When Benjamin caught sight of the olive tree seeds, his face was full of disdain, convinced that Sa Xin had conspired with others in some kind of scheme.

Just then, Li Zan arrived in time to firmly defend the truth—something Benjamin had never personally witnessed. Taking advantage of the moment, Benjamin brought up Sa Xin’s inappropriate actions at the hotel, further fueling Sa Xin’s anger. At that moment, a shadowy figure sneaked into their view. Li Zan, sharp-eyed, immediately sensed something was off. He swiftly took the camera from Song Ran and captured a crucial image, unexpectedly revealing a bomb.

Instantly alert, they realized this was a meticulously planned attack, and the atmosphere grew tense. However, they were unarmed, making their situation extremely dangerous. Thinking quickly, Sa Xin remembered a guard post not far ahead and suggested they seek reinforcements. But Benjamin, seeing himself as merely a mercenary rather than a soldier, declared that he would be of no help. At this critical moment, Li Zan and Jiang Lin stepped forward without hesitation.

With swift movements, Jiang Lin subdued the suspect, while Li Zan began defusing the bomb. He soon discovered that it was a dual-trigger explosive, making the disarming process exceptionally difficult and time-consuming. Meanwhile, Sa Xin noticed that a window on the top floor of an abandoned building had been unexpectedly opened. A suspicion arose in his mind—an ambush could be waiting. He immediately ordered Benjamin to investigate.

Sure enough, someone in the shadows began throwing stones, trying to lure them into the open. Fortunately, Benjamin reacted quickly and pulled Sa Xin aside, preventing a disaster. Time was running out. In a decisive move, Li Zan drove a vehicle straight into a wall, creating chaos and buying precious time for bomb disposal. A sudden explosion rang out, making Song Ran’s heart jump into her throat.

She rushed to the hospital, only to see Li Zan’s clothing, leading her to believe he had perished. Tears streamed down her face uncontrollably. But at that moment, Li Zan appeared. Through his intelligence and bravery, he had narrowly escaped death. Seeing him safe and sound, Song Ran finally let out a sigh of relief. Li Zan revealed that he had used the suspect’s body to weigh down the detonator, avoiding the blast. This harrowing experience strengthened the bond between them even further.

During the hotel bombing crisis, Sa Xin anxiously searched for Song Ran. His face was filled with worry as he revealed that his mother, Raina, was inside the hotel, while the bomb was located on the floor below. Desperate to rush into the hotel, Sa Xin was stopped by the soldiers. Seeing this, Benjamin immediately ordered the soldiers to let him through, allowing Sa Xin to enter. Song Ran followed closely behind, stepping into the hotel alongside Sa Xin.

Inside, Raina was still busy organizing the guests’ belongings, completely unaware of the impending danger. Sa Xin, frantic, tried to pull Raina away, but she stubbornly insisted on finishing her work. She worried that these were valuable items belonging to VIP guests, and if anything went missing, she would lose her job. Sa Xin was deeply frustrated by this—he found it unfair that those privileged guests fled for their own safety while leaving Raina behind in such a perilous situation.

Seeing this, Song Ran joined in persuading Raina. Eventually, Raina agreed to leave, but not before taking Sa Xin’s trophy with her. At that moment, the hotel manager rushed in, his face full of anger. He scolded Raina for focusing on retrieving "insignificant" items while neglecting the guests’ valuables. Benjamin stepped in at the right time, grabbing the manager and suggesting that if those items were so important, the manager should retrieve them himself.

However, this was just a trick—by then, the bomb had already been successfully defused, and Li Zan was well aware of this. Soon after, the returning guests attempted to cause trouble for Raina, but Sa Xin, Song Ran, and their companions firmly stood their ground, blocking them from doing so. As Song Ran and Li Zan made their way back, she remained concerned about Raina’s job security.

Li Zan reassured her, reminding her that some things could not be changed overnight, and all they could do was remain vigilant. Just then, Siya hurried over to them, urgently informing them of an explosion elsewhere. Her friend, Solon, was trapped inside, and his fate was uncertain. Without hesitation, Li Zan and Song Ran rushed to the scene and eventually found Solon buried under the rubble, barely clinging to life.

After an initial medical examination, the doctor confirmed that Solon was not in immediate danger but needed to be taken to the hospital for further treatment. Li Zan carefully carried Solon toward the ambulance, while Siya followed closely behind, tightly holding Solon’s hand. The scene deeply moved Song Ran, prompting her to capture this precious moment in a photograph. Since Siya was not Solon’s direct relative, she was not allowed to ride in the ambulance with him.

In response, she slipped a ring onto Solon’s finger, declaring herself as his wife. Touched by their deep bond, Li Zan explained their relationship to the doctor, who made an exception and allowed Siya to accompany Solon. Song Ran handed Li Zan an apple, symbolizing safety and peace, as a gesture to share the moment with him. While tending to the wounds he sustained from his heroic rescue, she realized that he needed professional medical treatment.

She could only perform a simple bandage on his hand. Li Zan decided to seek medical attention, and Song Ran offered to go with him, planning to interview Jiang Lin on the way. However, before they could proceed, Jiang Lin’s younger brother called. Worried that his brother might be concerned, Jiang Lin requested to reschedule the interview. Understanding his situation, Song Ran and Li Zan decided to head to the hospital first.

At the hospital, Benjamin and his team unexpectedly encountered Dr. Pei Xiaonan. Initially, Benjamin mistook her for a nurse. When he learned that she was a Chinese doctor and could understand him, he was both surprised and impressed. When Pei Xiaonan informed him that his wound required stitches and a tetanus shot, Benjamin resolutely refused anesthesia, insisting on enduring the procedure without it. As she removed her mask, Benjamin was momentarily captivated by her beauty.

Meanwhile, during his visit with Jiang Lin, Li Zan revealed his intention to travel to Hepu. Jiang Lin was shocked, believing that the situation in Hepu was unstable and that, as a volunteer, Li Zan might not be able to handle it. However, Li Zan was resolute, stating that it was his choice. Deeply moved by his determination, Jiang Lin decided to join Li Zan on this uncertain journey, ready to face challenges fearlessly.

At the same time, Song Ran received exciting news—her photograph had gone viral online, sparking widespread attention. Upon hearing about this, Shen Bei proactively approached her director, requesting to be sent to Dongguo for field experience to sharpen her skills. The director readily approved her request, unaware that Shen Bei had a hidden personal motive for making this decision.

Song Ran unexpectedly ran into Li Zan and excitedly expressed her desire to follow in their footsteps and travel to Hepu for filming. Faced with her enthusiasm, Li Zan hesitated. He admitted that he had originally planned to look for her but was worried that if he failed the selection, he would lose face. Just as he was wavering, Song Ran’s sudden appearance saved him from his dilemma. Seeing that it was still early, Li Zan suggested having lunch together.

In a small restaurant filled with the enticing aroma of grilled meat, Song Ran chose barbecue without hesitation and generously let Li Zan order, stating that she had no dietary restrictions. The conversation soon shifted to Shen Bei, and Song Ran mistakenly assumed that she was Li Zan’s girlfriend. Li Zan quickly clarified, explaining that Shen Bei was introduced to him by a friend, and he had no romantic intentions toward her.

As it turned out, the meeting had been arranged by Luo Zhan. Li Zan had originally intended to decline, but out of politeness, he still went. Shen Bei, being a perceptive person, noticed Li Zan’s attitude. Although she expressed that she wouldn’t give up on her feelings for him, she also respected his decision. At that moment, Jiang Lin walked out from the selection site, trying to conceal his failure, but Li Zan saw through him immediately.

Jiang Lin laughed and said that Song Ran was much more cooperative than him, unlike his own miserable state. Jiang Lin then introduced Li Zan to everyone, revealing that he was a demining volunteer about to depart for Hepu and had successfully passed the selection. Benjamin, however, questioned this, believing that it was not a place for volunteers to be involved. He then mentioned that he had also passed the selection.

Li Zan merely smiled and responded that their motives were similar, except his had nothing to do with money. Jiang Lin enthusiastically invited Song Ran to visit their camp and even generously offered to give her some vegetables. Benjamin, not wanting to be left out, also insisted on joining. When they arrived at the camp, they found everyone busy trying to catch a runaway goose, creating a rather comical scene.

The goose nearly crashed into Song Ran, but Li Zan quickly stepped in to protect her. A single feather floated down and landed gently in Song Ran’s hair. Li Zan thoughtfully pointed it out, and she shyly removed it. After collecting the vegetables from Jiang Lin, Song Ran noticed that Li Zan was still waiting in place and curiously asked him why. Li Zan smiled and replied that it was getting dark, and he wanted to escort her home.

On the way, Song Ran asked about Li Zan’s plans for the next day. He told her that he still had a full day of training ahead and that it might be his last day in the area. A ripple of emotion stirred in Song Ran’s heart upon hearing this. Back at her residence, Song Ran received a call from Sa Xin. He informed her that a journalist had been injured, and he had been urgently dispatched to assist.

To her surprise, one of the injured was someone she knew. Without hesitation, Song Ran called her editor-in-chief and expressed her willingness to continue reporting from Hepu. After careful consideration, her editor approved her request. Meanwhile, Shen Bei had quietly arrived in Dongguo. The next day, Song Ran set off on her journey. Along the way, she encountered a military patrol. The soldiers carefully checked her credentials and seemed to recognize her, even mentioning the photos she had taken.

Song Ran politely borrowed a map and marked her intended destination. Then, realizing that the map belonged to someone else, she quickly apologized. The soldiers, however, reassured her that it was nothing to worry about. Shortly after, Li Zan and his team happened to pass through the same area. The soldiers mentioned to them that they had just encountered a Chinese girl. Li Zan immediately recognized that it was Song Ran.

But when he saw that the location she had marked was a conflict zone, he became extremely anxious. Song Ran attempted to avoid a group of people but was accidentally discovered. She hurriedly hid inside a house while those outside searched the area. Her heartbeat quickened as she concealed herself in the shadows. Just then, Li Zan appeared unexpectedly, shocking and delighting her at the same time.

He quickly signaled for her to stay quiet, and Song Ran immediately nodded in understanding. Li Zan led her through the building, using the windows as cover. He swiftly leaped into another house, guiding her along. The searchers outside noticed the open window but, seeing no footprints, gave up their search. Once the danger had passed, Li Zan quickly took Song Ran away.

At that moment, Jiang Lin contacted them via radio, instructing Li Zan to take her away first while they handled the rest. In this sudden crisis, the unspoken understanding and courage between Li Zan and Song Ran made them each other’s most reliable support.

Li Zan drove Song Ran to Highway 7, where the fighting had stopped, and both sides had agreed to meet at the military base in Hepu City. The mercenaries who had just finished fighting also took an interest in Song Ran. Li Zan felt a bit jealous and protective of her, which made Song Ran happy and even a little shy.

As they drove along Highway 7, chatting happily, Song Ran suddenly noticed that Li Zan had a wound on his neck. Concerned, she examined the injury. At that moment, their eyes met, and the atmosphere became charged with new feelings. Song Ran carefully applied medicine to Li Zan's wound, and they were close enough that they could feel each other's breath. After driving for a while, Song Ran spotted a group of refugees by the roadside.

A little girl was curled up in her mother’s arms, clearly hungry. Li Zan stopped the car, and Song Ran got out to give the little girl some of the food she had with her. Seeing this, many other refugees surrounded her, hoping for food. Li Zan immediately moved to shield Song Ran, but to his surprise, the refugees formed a line, waiting patiently for their turn. Looking at these pitiful people, Song Ran felt a deep sense of guilt.

She distributed all the food she had, but there wasn't enough to go around, and many still hadn’t received anything. She looked at the remaining refugees, their eyes full of hope, and felt an overwhelming sadness. She didn’t want to disappoint them, so she desperately searched for more food, but ultimately, there was nothing more to give. Watching the refugees leave with disappointed expressions, Song Ran felt deeply sorry, and her heart was heavy.

She admired how the people of Dongguo, despite their hunger, still maintained order and politeness. After traveling a bit further, a beautiful sight appeared in front of them: a field of white olive trees. It was a stunning landscape. Under the beauty of the scene, the two made wishes. Li Zan used the radio to report the situation with the refugees to Jiang Lin. Song Ran eagerly awaited his response.

As expected, Jiang Lin decided to help the refugees, which made both Li Zan and Song Ran very happy. Unknowingly, Song Ran fell asleep, and in her sleep, she reached out and grabbed Li Zan’s hand. Not wanting to wake her, Li Zan moved his hand slowly and kept the car steady as he drove. Meanwhile, Benjamin noticed a group of children sneaking into the military camp to pick flowers.

He pretended to be the bad guy and let all the children go free. Just then, he saw Pei Xiaonan arrive, holding the flowers the children had stepped on. He decided to take the flowers to her, and Sa Xin, who was nearby, mocked the flowers as being stolen. Pei Xiaonan, however, took the flowers without hesitation. Benjamin saw an opportunity and asked Pei Xiaonan out for dinner, which she agreed to—but with a catch.

She told him he would have to do some heavy lifting since she was there to deliver medicine to the camp. Benjamin thought that Sa Xin was always opposing him because he liked Pei Xiaonan and felt that Sa Xin and Pei Xiaonan were not a good match—she was too young. Sa Xin denied this and said he was just there to interview people before walking away.

Li Zan and Song Ran finally reached the military camp where they were supposed to meet. They coincidentally ran into Pei Xiaonan, who, upon seeing Li Zan’s injury, immediately showed concern. Song Ran and Pei Xiaonan sat down with drinks in hand, sharing stories about the events of the day.

Pei Xiaonan went to get some drinks, leaving Song Ran alone and feeling a bit bored. She picked up her phone and started watching cartoons. Just then, Li Zan arrived, but Song Ran didn’t recognize him at first. She thought it was Pei Xiaonan returning and told her not to let anyone know she was watching cartoons. Li Zan sat down next to Song Ran and joked around with her.

After drinking a bit too much, Song Ran slowly lay down and fell asleep. Li Zan then took Song Ran back to the dormitory, where Pei Xiaonan was already asleep. At that moment, Benjamin walked in, seeing that both the girls were drunk and sleeping. With a sigh, he left, disappointed. The next morning, Song Ran was woken up by the noise of training in the military camp.

When she saw the time on her phone, she realized it was already late and began packing her things to leave. Just then, Li Zan appeared and informed her of her schedule for the day. Song Ran was surprised and asked how he knew. Li Zan explained that she had mentioned it the night before when she was drunk. Song Ran, a bit embarrassed, tried to remember what she had said, especially some of her secrets.

Li Zan and Song Ran went to the hotel where she was supposed to do the interview. They took the hotel elevator, and every time the elevator moved up a floor, it required a little bounce. At first, Song Ran didn’t realize and instinctively grabbed Li Zan, which made her feel a bit awkward. Sa Xin introduced Song Ran to his colleagues, and they happened to meet an industry professional that Song Ran greatly respected, Mike.

Song Ran was about to greet him, but he ignored her. Sa Xin gave Song Ran a bulletproof vest. The group was talking about a famous piece that Song Ran had photographed, which caught Mike’s attention. However, Mike seemed to have some prejudice against Song Ran, speaking rudely to her. Song Ran stood her ground and argued back. Suddenly, gunfire rang out as the rebels, now in a more ruthless state, were attacking civilians. The entire city was in danger.

Song Ran then overheard people selling tickets on the black market. With the current situation in Hepu, people were desperate to escape, but there were limited tickets. Song Ran saw a few civilians pleading with the ticket sellers to lower the prices, but the sellers were unmoved. She borrowed money from her colleagues in an attempt to help buy tickets, but Mike thought Song Ran’s actions wouldn’t make much of a difference.

Despite everything, Song Ran threw herself into her busy work. One day, while she was writing an article, she suddenly heard gunfire outside the window. Worried about Li Zan, she learned that Jiang Lin was leading a team to fight the rebels while Li Zan had put on his bomb disposal suit, preparing to defuse landmines. At the height of the battle, the rebels used children as human shields, and no one dared to shoot.

However, Benjamin seized the opportunity when the rebels were careless and shot one of them accurately. The child who had been taken hostage was the same child Benjamin had helped in the camp earlier that day. The child was strapped with explosives, and Li Zan quickly moved to help defuse the bomb. Song Ran, anxious about Li Zan’s safety, rushed to the combat zone. She happened to see an explosion, and with great worry, followed the others to safety.

However, there were more explosives that were triggered, and Li Zan urgently told everyone to evacuate. Song Ran stayed by the bomb as it neared its detonation time. As the bomb was about to explode, she couldn’t help but shout Li Zan’s name at the top of her lungs. Li Zan was thrown by the shockwave of the explosion, but he wasn’t seriously hurt. Seeing that he was okay, Song Ran was deeply relieved and felt a surge of emotions.

Jiang Lin found Benjamin and told him that next time he shouldn’t act without consulting others. When the child was taken hostage, everyone was hesitant to shoot, but Benjamin, without informing anyone, shot and killed the bandit. While this time it worked out, it was extremely dangerous, and if things had gone wrong, the child might not have made it back. Benjamin didn't seem to care about the warning.

During the explosion, Li Zan’s red string was severed, and Song Ran believed that the string had protected him from disaster. So, she decided to buy a new red string for him. This event brought Li Zan and Song Ran closer to each other, and their bond deepened. After the battle ended, Li Zan had to leave, and both of them had their own tasks to attend to.

They parted ways again, but before leaving, Li Zan suddenly made a decision. With newfound courage, he handed Song Ran an apple. Seeing the apple in her hand, Song Ran felt moved and excited. Song Ran met Sa Xin, who appeared very downhearted. He felt as though his country was like a fruit-bearing tree with no ability to defend itself. Anyone could come into his country, pick a fruit, and leave without hesitation.

No one spoke up for his country, and no one had any sympathy. It felt as if his country was doomed, and there was no solution. Hearing this, Song Ran also felt deeply sad. There was nothing she could do to help. At that moment, the person who had lent Song Ran money earlier to help the refugees sent her a message.

Since Song Ran had borrowed the money to buy tickets for the refugees, the people had no intention of asking for the money back. She showed the message to Sa Xin, trying to encourage him by reminding him that many kind people wanted to help his country. After reading the message, Sa Xin felt much better. Back at the hotel, Song Ran lazily lay on the bed.

Just then, her mother called, scolding her for not coming back home and sounding very stern. In the past, Song Ran would have found her mother’s tone harsh, but now, hearing her mother’s voice, it felt warm and comforting. For the first time, Song Ran spoke softly and gently to her mother. Surprised by her daughter’s tone, her mother didn’t continue the scolding but just reminded Song Ran to be careful.

Jiang Lin felt the same way about his country and was also comforted by Li Zan. Under Li Zan’s words of encouragement, Jiang Lin’s mood improved significantly, and he decided to take Li Zan out for drinks to cheer up. Sa Xin also took Song Ran to the bar to drink. Watching Sa Xin smile like the sun, Song Ran admired him. Just as they were talking, Benjamin came over holding a drink.

Sa Xin, however, didn’t like Benjamin very much. Song Ran noticed Pei Xiaonan in the bar, happily dancing in the middle of the dance floor. At that moment, Li Zan also arrived at the bar. He and Song Ran sat together, drinking and chatting happily. After the explosion earlier, Song Ran asked Li Zan about his condition, showing concern. As Song Ran got a little tipsy, Li Zan noticed it was getting late and suggested taking her back.

They walked down the street, and when Li Zan saw there was no one around, he boldly invited Song Ran to dance. Song Ran agreed with a smile, and just as they were about to dance, a couple passed by quickly, also dancing. This encouraged Song Ran to become more daring, and the two danced together, elegantly and boldly, like a gentleman leading his partner in a graceful dance.

Benjamin, in an attempt to improve his relationship with Sa Xin, decided to help him get the star. However, Benjamin deliberately teased Sa Xin, which made Sa Xin a bit angry. While Sa Xin was in the restroom, he happened to see Benjamin greeting another woman with a warm hug. Coincidentally, Pei Xiaonan also saw this. Pei Xiaonan, feeling upset, threw a drink at Benjamin before leaving.

Sa Xin, however, was pleased, as it turned out that Benjamin didn’t actually know the woman. The woman had dropped her key, and Benjamin had picked it up and returned it to her. Sa Xin's opinion of Benjamin changed, and he explained to him why he was so eager to get the star. Upon hearing this, Benjamin made a drink called "Starry Sky" for Sa Xin, and the two happily drank together.

Afterwards, Li Zan and Song Ran returned to their place. As they were walking, they encountered two drunk men coming toward them. Instinctively, Li Zan shielded Song Ran and pulled her into his arms, which made Song Ran feel a little shy. They started talking about going back to their country, and Li Zan expressed that he hoped Song Ran would stay longer.

It was clear that Li Zan was trying to express his feelings, wanting to spend more time with her. Song Ran was delighted to hear this. After parting ways with Li Zan, Song Ran joyfully ran back to the hotel, only to find Shen Bei there. Song Ran was surprised, and Shen Bei openly admitted that she had come to fight with Song Ran for Li Zan. Song Ran, pretending to be unconcerned, left.

Shen Bei realized that Song Ran had changed and had grown. She recalled seeing Li Zan and Song Ran together at the hotel entrance and made up her mind to win Li Zan’s heart. Song Ran met Sa Xin, and he reminded her that Li Zan might have feelings for her. Song Ran was caught off guard but also felt a surge of joy inside.

Meanwhile, in the military camp, Jiang Lin and Li Zan were talking when Benjamin came over. The three of them teased each other, and just then, a soldier came to report that a female journalist was looking for Li Zan. The three of them thought it was Song Ran. However, when Li Zan arrived at the camp gate, he saw that it was Shen Bei.

Shen Bei told Li Zan that since Song Ran’s work period was over and she would be going back to her country in a few days, she was here to take over for Song Ran. Benjamin, who had come to find Li Zan, was surprised to see it wasn’t Song Ran. Song Ran and Sa Xin then went to the orphanage, where they found Shen Bei conducting an interview, but she was being turned away.

Song Ran decided to step forward and greet her. Sa Xin noticed that Shen Bei had some hostility toward Song Ran and didn’t really like Shen Bei. However, Song Ran didn’t mind and even offered advice on how to conduct the interview so that it wouldn’t be rejected. She even offered to help bridge the gap, but Shen Bei wasn’t receptive and continued to show hostility. Song Ran, hearing this, gave Shen Bei a sharp rebuttal, leaving Shen Bei speechless.

Back at the hotel, Shen Bei was packing her bags to return home, but her competitive nature wouldn’t allow her to give up. So, she decided to stay. Meanwhile, Benjamin was driving and happened to spot Vina, who was injured and carrying two children. Benjamin immediately asked Vina what had happened. Vina explained that she was a volunteer and hadn’t been mistreated. Benjamin then took Vina to the hospital for treatment. Coincidentally, Pei Xiaonan saw this and approached them.

Since Pei Xiaonan knew that the incident the other night had been a misunderstanding, she greeted Benjamin. Benjamin, once again, asked Pei Xiaonan out, and she readily agreed.

Song Ran arrived at the orphanage and met with the director. She also saw Vina, who told her that during the recent attack, many people had gone missing. Later, it was discovered that they had been buried under the rubble. Solon and Siya's parents were among those who lost their lives in the attack. Siya told Song Ran that a female journalist had been visiting frequently, and Song Ran suspected that it was Shen Bei.

Song Ran later spotted Shen Bei and called Siya and Solon over. Shen Bei immediately recognized them as the two children from the photo. After hearing what Siya said, she guessed that Song Ran had called them over. The hostility between Song Ran and Shen Bei had lessened. Song Ran realized that Shen Bei was the kind of person who preferred solving problems on her own and felt that she could forgive her.

However, Shen Bei insisted that they were still rivals. Meanwhile, Sa Xin asked Vina why she had become a volunteer. Vina explained that after they left, the manager found an excuse to fire her, and Benjamin happened to witness it. Benjamin reprimanded the manager, but Vina no longer wanted to be a waitress—she wanted to become a volunteer. Benjamin then took Vina to find Li Zan, who helped arrange for her to work as a volunteer.

Sa Xin thought being a volunteer was too dangerous, but Vina said she wanted to help others. Seeing these children reminded her of Sa Xin when he was young. If these kids could grow up well and attend university, the country could gradually improve. Vina admitted that she had misunderstood things before and said that from now on, they could meet whenever they wanted. Sa Xin was happy to hear this.

Vina handed him a star, saying that the one he had before was taken by Benjamin, so she was giving him another one. Sa Xin thought Benjamin wouldn’t care for such a thing, but Vina told him to look into Benjamin’s eyes—he actually wanted it. As Song Ran was about to take a photo, an explosion suddenly occurred. Li Zan also heard the blast from his location. Song Ran was hit directly by the shockwave and fell to the ground.

Some of the children were injured. She comforted them, telling them not to cry, and, together with Shen Bei, led them to a safer hiding place. Sa Xin and Vina also arrived, but Solon and Siya were still behind. Sa Xin told them to hide while he went to get them. Sa Xin managed to bring Siya over, but he was injured, and Solon was still behind.

Song Ran urged Shen Bei and the others not to come out, then took Sa Xin and hid. Vina, determined to save Solon, insisted on going back for him and begged Song Ran to take care of Sa Xin. Shen Bei started crying, while Song Ran anxiously hoped that the soldiers would come to rescue them. Li Zan finally arrived, and the moment Song Ran saw him, she couldn't help but hug him tightly. Benjamin came with devastating news—Vina had died.

She had found Solon, but the enemy discovered her and killed her. Benjamin had taken down the attacker, but before she died, Vina handed the star to Benjamin, telling him that as a soldier in constant danger, he must always wear it. Watching Vina close her eyes for the last time, Benjamin let out an agonized roar. Meanwhile, a bomb was discovered, and Li Zan went to defuse it.

During the explosion, Song Ran had been directly impacted, suffering a ruptured spleen and corneal injury. She was transported to the capital and then sent back to her home country. Throughout the journey, she remained semi-conscious, repeatedly calling out Li Zan’s name. Song Ran’s parents came to see her, and many colleagues sent gifts. Despite searching, Song Ran couldn’t find Li Zan. She asked Luo Zhan about him, but Luo Zhan had also lost contact with Li Zan.

The director informed Song Ran that Shen Bei had brought back her camera. Her photos were excellent, and they wanted to submit two of them for a competition. Song Ran asked the director to help her pick two. Later, Song Ran went to find Shen Bei, but Shen Bei was avoiding her. A colleague mentioned that she had just been there moments ago.

Song Ran understood what Shen Bei meant and thought that perhaps it was better for them not to meet. After returning home, Song Ran frequently recalled the things she had witnessed during the attack. The sound of explosions constantly echoed in her ears, forcing her to hide in her tent, covering her ears tightly. Before Luo Zhan received the phone call, he had arranged for an international organization to send over a volunteer.

Now, that person had woken up and identified himself as Li Zan. Luo Zhan rushed to the hospital and saw Li Zan. Li Zan had suffered intracranial injuries, rib and minor bone fractures, and numerous external wounds. Luo Zhan assured him that they would return home for treatment and that he didn’t need to worry too much. Luo Zhan asked Li Zan if he had brought his hearing aid, and Li Zan confirmed that he had.

When the doctor examined him, Li Zan explained his condition, saying that his hearing impairment wasn’t the most difficult part to endure. Instead, it was the constant ringing in his ears and dizziness, as if explosions were going off all the time. The doctor told Luo Zhan that Li Zan’s condition wasn’t solely caused by the explosion—there might be other underlying issues they were unaware of. It would be best for him to see a psychologist.

When Luo Zhan went to check on Li Zan in his hospital room, he found that Li Zan had smashed many things and was curled up in bed. Meanwhile, the director called Song Ran over and asked her to select two photographs and give them a title, as they needed to be sent to the organizing committee immediately. Looking at the photos, Song Ran was once again reminded of the explosion.

She decided to let the director name them instead, reasoning that an outsider’s perspective might be more accurate. The director praised her for completing the mission well and encouraged her to stay strong. In the elevator, Song Ran ran into Shen Bei, who simply said she had something to do and left quickly. Li Zan packed his belongings. He wasn’t sure if he would ever be able to return to his work.

During this time, Song Ran frequently visited Luo Zhan’s place, hoping to run into Li Zan. One day, she wrote his name on the window of his car, but she didn’t see him inside. However, Li Zan saw Song Ran but chose not to call out to her. Back home, Song Ran’s mother asked her how she was doing. Song Ran replied that her medical checkup was fine, but the blind date didn’t go well.

Her mother then asked what kind of person she liked, offering to help her find someone. Song Ran replied that these things depended on fate. Her mother scoffed, asking if Song Ran’s so-called "fate" was really that good. She pointed out that while Song Ran was in a coma, she had been calling out Li Zan’s name. She had even seen him in the photos Song Ran had taken. So where was he now?

Had they been in contact at all since he returned? Song Ran told her mother not to interfere so much. But her mother shot back, saying if she didn’t take care of Song Ran, then who would? Her father? He could barely manage his own household. If Song Ran really wanted Li Zan to take care of her, then she should call him right now.

If he agreed, she would hand Song Ran over to him and never worry about her again. Song Ran was completely overwhelmed and lashed out, asking why her mother always had to say such harsh things without considering other people’s feelings. She ran into her room, covered her ears, and lay on the bed. At the hospital, Song Ran thought she had seen Li Zan. But when she chased after him, he was nowhere to be found.

When she got home, her mother was there, saying she had no work that day and had brought her tasks home. She asked what Song Ran wanted for dinner. Song Ran replied indifferently that anything was fine—she would eat whatever was available. At the airport, Song Ran finally saw Li Zan. They were separated by a glass wall, and she grew anxious. Li Zan was about to board his flight. Before leaving, he called Song Ran and said, "Looks like I didn’t forget your number after all. I’ll contact you when I arrive.

Li Zan returned home, and his father was visibly emotional upon seeing him. His father mentioned that Li Zan had landed two hours ago and asked why he had only just arrived home. Li Zan explained that he was stuck in traffic. His father had already prepared a meal and asked why he had gone for a medical check-up—was there something wrong?

Li Zan replied that it was an arrangement by the volunteer organization and that there was nothing to worry about. Seeing a variety of health supplements, Li Zan’s father explained that Luo Zhan had brought them over, urging Li Zan to take good care of himself. He also reminded him to review his blueprints even while on leave—someone as talented as him shouldn’t be taking too long a break.

While watching the news, Li Zan heard about the awards selection process and saw that Song Ran was participating. His father noticed something was off and asked if he was in a relationship. Li Zan denied it, but his father dismissed his response, saying that she was probably just not his girlfriend yet. He also commented that the girl looked familiar, which meant she was somehow connected to their family.

Li Zan wanted to call Song Ran but, upon seeing the scars on his body in the mirror, he recalled the explosion and ultimately decided not to make the call. Shen Bei went to see the director, insisting that since the awards process had not yet started, the selected photograph should be withdrawn. She argued that it would cause great harm to Song Ran and everyone else.

The director refused, saying that Song Ran had not objected to it, and perhaps the one who couldn't face it was Shen Bei herself. Song Ran overheard their conversation from outside. Shen Bei deliberately claimed that it was she who didn’t want to see the photo. Song Ran responded that Shen Bei was just like before—always making her seem like the bad person.

The truth was, Song Ran also didn’t dare to face it, which was why she had left everything in the director’s hands. She hadn’t even known that this particular photo had been chosen. She felt that all of them were just avoiding reality. Avoidance wasn’t shameful, but it was useless. Song Ran ended up winning the award. Li Zan called to congratulate her. Both of them still remembered what had happened in Dongguo.

They had both suffered, yet neither of them shared those experiences with the other. Instead, they both claimed they were doing fine. Li Zan played a song—it was the same music they had danced to back in Dongguo. Neither of them hung up the phone. They started dancing on their own, as if they were dancing together. Li Zan went to the police station, where he saw Jiang Lin’s younger brother, Jiang Yu’s homeroom teacher.

This time, Jiang Yu had been brought in for fighting. Li Zan explained that Jiang Yu had grown up in a difficult environment and asked the teacher to be more understanding. The teacher acknowledged this, saying they all cared about Jiang Yu since he had lost both his parents. However, Jiang Yu couldn’t always resort to fighting as a solution. Luo Zhan arrived as well.

The last time they spoke, the doctor had mentioned that Li Zan’s mental burden might stem from unknown reasons. Luo Zhan had been investigating ever since, and that search had led him here. Li Zan admitted that Luo Zhan must have put in a lot of effort to track him down.

Luo Zhan, however, wasn’t sure if Li Zan was praising him or mocking him, but he didn’t mind—as long as Li Zan was willing to talk, even a sarcastic remark was fine. Li Zan confessed that he didn’t actually remember much from back then. He only remembered defusing the bomb and then Jiang Lin sacrificing himself. He felt as if Jiang Lin had died because of him. Li Zan asked Luo Zhan if he had really caused Jiang Lin’s death.

Luo Zhan firmly responded that Li Zan had always been saving lives—he could never have harmed anyone. After Song Ran’s photograph won the award, many people on the internet began attacking her. They questioned why she had time to take the picture but not to save lives. They accused her of exploiting other people’s suffering for her own fame and fortune. Seeing those comments, Song Ran was devastated. She curled up in her tent, unable to face the outside world.

Li Zan also saw those messages and wanted to go see her, but when they spoke on the phone, Song Ran didn’t mention anything about it. Instead of going directly, Li Zan arranged for someone in a panda costume to visit and cheer her up. The gesture lightened Song Ran’s mood significantly.

Li Zan recalled something Jiang Lin had once said—no matter how much time passed or what happened, as long as Li Zan sent the message "Li Zan requesting support" in their group chat, they would always come to help. Li Zan sent the message, and when the team members saw it, they immediately showed it to Benjamin. Benjamin went to see Sa Xin, who was being held in confinement by him.

Sa Xin protested, saying that he had earned his place in the special forces through proper assessments, and Benjamin had no authority to imprison him—this was an abuse of power. Benjamin showed him the message and stated that as a journalist, this was his responsibility. As for Reina, avenging her was something they all had to do. Sa Xin retorted that this was their country, and they didn’t need mercenaries to interfere.

He then posted online about what Song Ran had done in the past, emphasizing that she genuinely cared about their country. He explained that her photograph had given people strength. As a result, many began to speak up in support of Song Ran, and the online discourse started to shift. If even those directly involved saw her differently, perhaps she wasn’t what they had imagined after all. After returning, Li Zan was in poor condition.

Song Ran messaged him, knowing that he had gone to see Sa Xin and the others. She was very grateful and wanted to invite him to a meal. Li Zan replied that he was on a business trip. Song Ran wasn’t sure whether he would actually accept her invitation or not. Later, Li Zan called Luo Zhan, saying he wanted to recover as soon as possible and asked Luo Zhan to help him find a psychologist.

Luo Zhan had already arranged everything. He had secured appointments for Tuesdays and Wednesdays, and all Li Zan had to do was show up. When Li Zan went to see the psychiatrist, he admitted that he didn’t want a certain person to see him like this. The doctor noted that this person must be very important to him. After the session, Luo Zhan asked how it went.

Li Zan said the doctor told him his condition was serious—but she was confident in helping him. Just then, Song Ran messaged him, asking if he had returned from his trip and if he was available for dinner. This time, Li Zan agreed. Song Ran told him she would book a restaurant and send him the details. Song Ran arrived at the restaurant, but Li Zan was very late.

When he finally called her to ask where she was, Song Ran told him she had already left and hadn’t waited long. However, as he approached the restaurant, he saw Song Ran walking out. He asked what she was doing, but she simply replied that she had already showered and was getting ready for bed. Hearing his voice, Song Ran was pleasantly surprised. She and Li Zan ended up going for dinner together.

Noticing that Li Zan was wearing a hearing aid, she asked about his condition. Li Zan explained that he had suffered an ear injury before, but he was fine now. He then asked about her. Song Ran mentioned that she had once injured her eyes, but it wasn’t serious, and she had recovered quickly. Jiang Yu got into another fight and was taken to the police station. Li Zan rushed over.

Jiang Yu’s homeroom teacher introduced them, explaining that each time Jiang Yu had been in trouble, it was Li Zan who had helped handle the situation. He told Jiang Yu to properly thank him. Li Zan told Jiang Yu that he was a friend of Jiang Lin’s and that violence wouldn’t truly solve his problems. If Jiang Yu ever needed help, he could always come to him, and they could figure things out together.

However, Jiang Yu coldly responded that he didn’t know Jiang Lin and didn’t need Li Zan interfering in his business. With that, Jiang Yu turned and left. Li Zan stood there, still holding the jersey that Jiang Lin had prepared for Jiang Yu but had never gotten the chance to give him. Song Ran went to see her doctor. The doctor told her that her condition had improved significantly, and they could start reducing her medication.

However, there might still be emotional fluctuations, so she needed to be mentally prepared. Song Ran asked what would happen if she returned to Dongguo. The doctor explained that there were two extreme possibilities—she might confront her trauma head-on, face it positively, and heal completely. Or she might break down entirely. The doctor didn’t recommend taking that risk, especially since her current treatment was effective. There was no need to jeopardize her progress.

Li Zan said he had already forgotten about what happened in Dongguo. Luo Zhan replied that if Li Zan had truly forgotten, he wouldn’t still be working on those models. Li Zan asked Luo Zhan if he knew what "seeing through but not exposing" meant. Luo Zhan admitted that he had struggled for a long time to find the right words, but if it could help Li Zan get better, then there was nothing left for him to consider.

Luo Zhan pointed out that if Li Zan couldn’t remember what had happened, then how could he be so certain that he was the one responsible for Jiang Lin’s death? Li Zan explained that the reason he couldn’t remember was because of trauma—it was the body’s self-protection mechanism. But since it was trauma, how could Jiang Lin’s death have nothing to do with him?

Luo Zhan handed Li Zan a USB drive, saying that he had created a simulation model of the explosion and that using this would make things clearer, faster. Li Zan went to see Jiang Yu, but when Jiang Lin was mentioned, Jiang Yu spoke about him with disdain.

Jiang Yu called Jiang Lin a liar, saying that he had made promises since Jiang Yu was in elementary school, but even after reaching middle school, he had never followed through on any of them. Li Zan asked if it wasn’t too much to place all the blame for the brutality of war on Jiang Lin alone. If Jiang Lin truly didn’t care about Jiang Yu, then why did he keep bringing him up?

And how would Li Zan have even known about Jiang Yu in the first place? Li Zan pointed out that Jiang Yu missed Jiang Lin but was expressing it in the wrong way. He told Jiang Yu to think it over—he would come back to talk again. As Song Ran happened to pass by, she saw Jiang Yu pinning a boy down, warning him not to come looking for him again or else he wouldn’t be polite.

Song Ran stepped in to stop Jiang Yu. Jiang Yu assumed she was meddling in his business. Song Ran handed her business card to Wang Han, telling him to reach out if he needed help. Later, a colleague informed Song Ran that a student from the Experimental Middle School was looking for her—his name was Wang Han. Li Zan returned to speak with Jiang Yu, pointing out that they actually had something in common—they both deeply missed Jiang Lin.

He then went to get his car, planning to take Jiang Yu home. At the same time, Song Ran approached Jiang Yu, trying to understand more about Wang Han’s situation. Jiang Yu was impatient and told her to stay out of it. When Song Ran grabbed his arm to stop him from leaving, Jiang Yu shook her off, causing her hand to slam against the wall. Li Zan arrived at that moment and immediately asked Jiang Yu what had happened.

Jiang Yu didn’t say much. Li Zan treated Song Ran’s wound, commenting that he hadn’t expected their next meeting to be under such circumstances. He brought up Jiang Lin and wondered if there had been some kind of misunderstanding—he wanted to talk to Jiang Yu first. Song Ran agreed. Song Ran’s father called her home for dinner. As she stood at the door, she overheard a conversation between her stepmother and half-sister.

Her stepmother scoffed that all Song Ran had done was take a photo and win an award—so what if people were criticizing her online? Why was she being so dramatic? She also complained that the last time she called Song Ran, Song Ran had yelled at her, making it seem like she was the one about to fall into depression. Unable to listen any longer, Song Ran turned and left.

A video surfaced online showing a conflict between Jiang Yu and Wang Han. Underneath it, Song Ran commented: "School bullying is happening right around us. "A colleague called Song Ran to inform her that their supervisor had also seen the comment and wanted her to delete it. The colleague wanted to give her a heads-up first. Li Zan met up with Song Ran and brought up the situation. Song Ran said she had no personal stance in this matter.

Li Zan pointed out that her comment made it seem as if the situation was undoubtedly school bullying. Li Zan took Song Ran to see Jiang Yu. Jiang Yu was furious. He accused Li Zan of promising that Song Ran wouldn’t write recklessly, yet now she had posted this. Didn’t that mean she was saying he had beaten up Wang Han? Song Ran obtained Wang Han’s notebook, which recorded specific dates and locations of incidents.

One of them matched exactly with what she had personally witnessed. Li Zan countered that the notebook only had times and locations—nowhere did it specify names. So how could they be certain it was Jiang Yu? Song Ran tried asking other students, but no one was willing to speak up.

The supervisor told Song Ran to delete the comment. Song Ran felt that she was expressing her personal opinion. The supervisor argued that since she was now a public figure, she couldn’t entirely represent just herself. Song Ran believed that deleting the comment would mean admitting that Wang Han was lying, which she was unwilling to do. She went back to her father’s house for dinner. Her father also told her to delete the comment. Song Ran was upset.

She recalled how her father had taught her from a young age that writing should have the power to change society—so why was he not supporting her now? Li Zan called Song Ran, telling her that he was concerned about her. Song Ran told him where she was. Li Zan came to see her and found that she was still deeply saddened. He told Song Ran that he understood Jiang Yu.

Although Jiang Yu always acted tough, Li Zan could sense his fear inside. Song Ran became even more upset, feeling that Li Zan was saying she was wrong. She insisted that her comment was neutral and that she believed in what she saw with her own eyes. After all, there was also a video online. Song Ran went to see Luo Zhan.

She told him that he was the most rational person she had ever met and asked if she had really been wrong. Luo Zhan said he couldn’t give her an answer because, to him, Li Zan was also someone who intrigued him. However, he wanted to ask Song Ran:If she thought Li Zan was too emotional about Jiang Lin, did she not have any emotional bias in this case as well? Was there nothing she wanted to make up for?

Song Ran met with Wang Han. She urged him to tell the truth. If he could promise her that it was indeed Jiang Yu who had done this, then even though Jiang Yu was the younger brother of her late friend, she would still help Wang Han speak up. Wang Han apologized, admitting that he had been too scared at the time. Song Ran had thought she was seeking redemption, but she hadn’t expected things to turn out this way.

Wang Han explained that Jiang Yu had been his best friend, the one who saved him from those bullies. But then, everything changed. Wang Han revealed that those people had forced him to take Jiang Yu’s jacket. Jiang Yu was furious and almost hit him. The bullies recorded a video and told Wang Han to upload it online, saying it would ruin Jiang Yu. Song Ran pointed out that Jiang Yu had changed because of his brother’s death.

Wang Han was also heartbroken, wondering why Jiang Yu hadn’t told him anything—he was supposed to be Jiang Yu’s best friend. Song Ran thought about this too. People were strange creatures—they always held back the words they truly wanted to say. When Song Ran saw Li Zan, she admitted the truth about herself. She confessed that all the times she had told Li Zan she was fine had been lies.

Li Zan also revealed his own situation—he had been hiding things from Song Ran as well. When they returned, Song Ran told Li Zan that he didn’t need to change his shoes and could just come in. She then asked why he had come today. Li Zan told her that he had found the real bullies who had hurt Wang Han and had already handed them over to the police. He had come to tell her this.

Song Ran asked how he had found them. Li Zan explained that he had cross-checked the times and locations from Wang Han’s notebook one by one until he identified them. Li Zan brought up Jiang Yu, saying that aside from himself, there was someone else who believed Jiang Yu wasn’t that kind of person.

At one point, Jiang Yu had been taken to the police station for fighting, and it was Li Zan and a teacher who had gone to pick him up. Because of that, Jiang Yu couldn’t have been the one who attacked Wang Han. Song Ran asked why Li Zan hadn’t told her this earlier. Li Zan said that by the time he had confirmed it, she had already posted the comment, and this one detail alone wasn’t enough to prove anything.

Song Ran then realized that Li Zan suspected himself of causing Jiang Lin’s death. She assured him that everything would get better.

Song Ran comforted Li Zan with her own experiences. They were about to talk about confessing their feelings for each other when suddenly, the elderly neighbor, Old Granny Wang, knocked on the door. She asked Song Ran to help thread a needle. Song Ran, still flustered from the earlier events, found herself unable to thread the needle.

At that moment, Li Zan walked over and, upon seeing him, Old Granny Wang bluntly remarked that the two of them were in a relationship. Song Ran felt a little embarrassed, but neither she nor Li Zan denied it directly. Li Zan just followed Granny Wang out, and although Song Ran felt a little reluctant, she didn’t try to stop him. The next day, Li Zan decided to accept psychological treatment and asked Luo Zhan to accompany him.

Li Zan admitted that he had changed his mind because of Song Ran. His comrade told Li Zan that he had spoken to Song Ran before, but he didn’t reveal the details of their conversation. Li Zan invited Song Ran to dinner, but he wanted her to cook for him. Song Ran was happy, so they agreed to meet at Li Zan’s place. That evening, after arriving at Li Zan’s home, the two of them busied themselves in the kitchen.

Song Ran tried to reach for the pot, but it was placed too high, and she accidentally knocked over Li Zan's phone. Li Zan quickly stepped in to protect Song Ran, and they ended up holding each other tightly. As they stood there, their bodies close together, neither of them could resist looking into each other's eyes. Li Zan gently kissed Song Ran, admitting that he liked her.

Song Ran, after his confession, openly admitted that she liked him too and didn’t pull away from his kiss. They embraced and shared a sweet kiss. Afterward, Song Ran told Li Zan that she had quit her job as a reporter. Li Zan didn’t say much, but he encouraged her and even gave her a good idea: she could pursue her dream of writing books. The next day, Song Ran packed her things and left the company.

Her colleagues were sad to see her go, and Li Zan personally drove her home. After dropping Song Ran off, Li Zan told her that he was going to Jiang Cheng to visit his father and asked if she would like to come along for a little getaway. Song Ran was thrilled and happily agreed.

On the way to meet Li Zan’s father, Song Ran kept asking about his father’s habits, worried about making a bad impression on her first meeting with him. Song Ran wanted to buy some fruit for Li Zan’s father, but Li Zan kept stopping her from buying too much. At that moment, Li Zan’s father came out for a walk and Song Ran immediately recognized him—it was Mr. Li, who lived just upstairs from her.

After dinner, Song Ran helped clean up. Li Zan’s father thanked her because, after Li Zan had returned home previously, despite trying to maintain a smile, his mood had been quite bad. It was Song Ran who had helped improve Li Zan’s condition. That’s when Song Ran realized that Li Zan had been carrying a lot of emotional wounds, which he had never expressed before. She promised that she would always treat him well.

That night, since Song Ran hadn’t brought pajamas, she could only wear Li Zan’s shirt after taking a shower. She felt a little shy, but they sat on the bed and looked through Li Zan’s old photos. After chatting for a while, Li Zan was about to leave. Song Ran reluctantly let go of his hand. Just as she returned to her room, she received a message from Jiang Yu. He had ranked 5th in the recent monthly exam.

Li Zan was pleased when he heard this and planned to buy Jiang Yu a gift when he returned. At that moment, Song Ran came back into the room.

They collapsed onto the bed, embracing each other as they fell asleep together. The next morning, when Li Zan woke up, he heard Song Ran and her father, Mr. Li, working together in the yard, planting. Li Zan went outside, and Mr. Li scolded him for sleeping in. Song Ran quickly explained that Li Zan hadn’t slept well the night before. Mr. Li glanced at Song Ran, making her feel a bit embarrassed.

Li Zan also hoped his father would end his single life and find someone to spend his later years with. But Mr. Li couldn’t forget his late wife and was firmly against the idea. Before leaving, Mr. Li gave Song Ran a large red envelope. Song Ran was a little embarrassed because it seemed like a lot.

Li Zan explained that it was a local custom, and the minimum amount for a red envelope was 1000 yuan, with 2000 being the more generous amount. The large sum showed how much his father liked Song Ran. Song Ran suddenly remembered that she had forgotten to contact her younger sister, Song Yang, before leaving. Song Yang had sent her many messages, but Song Ran hadn’t replied.

Li Zan suggested that Song Ran come stay with him for a while to figure out how to explain things to Song Yang. On the train, the two of them played a game together. During the game, Song Ran suddenly realized that the panda who had comforted her that day was actually Li Zan. She had never noticed that Li Zan had been silently by her side, helping her through her struggles without expecting anything in return.

Song Ran felt deeply touched. Luo Zhan’s company was organizing a team-building event, but his subordinates had arranged for a real-life CS (Counter-Strike) game, which made him a bit angry. Just then, Li Zan walked by, overheard, and expressed interest in joining. He wanted to try and relive some of the memories from the explosion incident. Song Ran was doing well in her psychological recovery and had gone to see her therapist.

During this time, she asked about Li Zan’s condition and expressed her desire to help him recover. After the doctor’s appointment, Song Ran received a call from Shen Bei. She was surprised to see it was Shen Bei calling. Shen Bei knew how much Song Ran had loved being a reporter, so when she heard that Song Ran had quit, she was a bit shocked. Song Ran calmly explained that she simply wanted to change her work environment.

That evening, Li Zan was working out, doing push-ups. The two of them chatted, and Li Zan suddenly suggested that Song Ran sit on him. The atmosphere between them was relaxed and happy. Li Zan then carried Song Ran to the room. The next day, Li Zan was preparing to attend the real-life CS competition for the team-building event. He saw that Song Ran was still fast asleep in bed, so he left her a note.

That night, after Li Zan returned, Song Ran immediately sat up in bed, eager to see him. However, she waited for a long time, but Li Zan didn’t come into the room. Song Ran decided to text him to ask what had happened, but then she heard the sound of water running from the bathroom. She thought Li Zan must have gone to the bathroom, which was why he hadn’t come in.

She lay back down to wait for him to return. When Li Zan came out of the bathroom, he still didn’t come to find her. Song Ran was surprised but didn’t say anything, assuming that Li Zan was simply tired. Li Zan returned to his room and reflected on the events of the day’s real-life CS game. The confrontation had triggered memories of the explosion, and he remembered how Jiang Lin had sacrificed himself to save Li Zan.

Li Zan felt a deep sense of guilt. Song Ran couldn’t help but come out to check on Li Zan. She found him sitting on the sofa, looking distressed. Concerned, she asked him what was wrong. Li Zan didn’t want Song Ran to worry, so he lied, claiming that he had just had a nightmare. Despite this, he pulled her into his arms.

Perhaps, in this way, Li Zan could experience a bit of warmth to ease his feelings of guilt. While drinking milk, Song Ran intentionally brought up the topic of Dongguo (Eastern Country). Hearing this, Li Zan’s heart sank, but he didn’t show it on his face.

Li Zan went to the school to meet Jiang Yu and brought Wang Han along. The three of them went to a milk tea shop together. Seeing how well Li Zan treated Jiang Yu, Wang Han suggested that Jiang Yu acknowledge Li Zan as his sworn brother. However, Jiang Yu hesitated, and Li Zan did not insist. Feeling awkward and embarrassed, Jiang Yu drank an entire large cup of milk tea in one go, surprising Wang Han.

Before they parted ways, Li Zan gave Jiang Yu a basketball signed by a famous basketball star. Jiang Yu was delighted and expressed his gratitude. When Li Zan returned home, Song Ran warmly greeted him, and they embraced. Li Zan originally wanted to tell Song Ran something important, but upon hearing that she also had news, he chose to remain silent and listened to her first.

Song Ran told Li Zan that her proposal had been selected by the production team of "Di Cheng" and that she had been invited to join them. Li Zan was genuinely happy for her. However, Song Ran had to leave immediately and stay there for some time, meaning they would be apart. She was reluctant to leave, but Li Zan had no intention of holding her back. Instead, he encouraged her to pursue her career.

With Li Zan’s support, Song Ran felt even more determined. Li Zan accompanied Song Ran to the train station and thoughtfully prepared two bottles of water for her. Song Ran was touched, and as the moment of parting approached, both of them felt reluctant to say goodbye. Sitting on the train, Song Ran stared idly out the window. Suddenly, a large hand reached out and patted her on the head. She turned around and was shocked to see Li Zan.

Overjoyed, she learned that since it was Friday, Li Zan had called in for leave so he could accompany her to "Di Cheng". However, Song Ran did not want to see her mother and suggested that they stay at a hotel together instead. That night, Li Zan kept dreaming about the explosion in Dongguo. The next morning, he woke up startled, still unsettled, and drank a glass of water.

He noticed a note slipped under the door—it was from Song Ran. She had gone out for a shoot and didn’t want to wake him, so she left him the note instead. After reading it, Li Zan felt much calmer. Since he had left in a hurry without bringing his medication, he called his doctor to arrange to buy some in "Di Cheng". Just as he had finished purchasing the medicine, Song Ran called him.

Not wanting her to worry, Li Zan lied and said he was just out for a walk. Coincidentally, the man whom Song Ran’s mother had introduced to her overheard Li Zan’s phone conversation. However, he didn’t believe that fate would align so perfectly. Later, Song Ran took Li Zan to a gathering. Everyone recognized Li Zan as the volunteer Song Ran had once interviewed and admired their relationship. At school, a parents’ meeting was scheduled, and Jiang Yu approached Teacher Song.

Since his grandparents were elderly, he hoped that Li Zan could attend in their place. Jiang Yu sent Li Zan a message, though his wording was ambiguous, showing his anticipation for Li Zan’s response. After the meeting, Li Zan learned that Jiang Yu was planning to go to Dongguo. He had no choice but to reveal the truth—that Jiang Lin had sacrificed himself to save him.

Upon realizing that the person responsible for his brother’s death was standing before him, Jiang Yu was furious and punched Li Zan. Their previously repaired relationship shattered once again. The next morning, Luo Zhan came to Li Zan’s house with an urgent case. Seeing that Li Zan was injured, he asked about it and learned the reason behind the attack. Luo Zhan consoled Li Zan, telling him not to blame himself too much. Although Jiang Lin had died saving him, Li Zan had not done anything wrong.

Luo Zhan was always angry at Li Zan for blaming himself. He felt that Li Zan was destroying himself, making it impossible for his condition to improve. To ease the tension between them, Li Zan suggested they spar in a boxing match. After a few rounds, Luo Zhan noticed that with Li Zan’s skills, Jiang Yu could never have landed a hit on him—Li Zan had clearly let him. Then, Li Zan brought up his intention to return to Dongguo.

Upon hearing this, Luo Zhan became even more furious. Dongguo had caused Li Zan too much pain in the past, and he didn’t want him to go back and suffer again. However, despite Luo Zhan’s objections, Li Zan remained firm in his decision, leaving Luo Zhan no choice but to storm off in frustration. Since he had to attend a colleague’s wedding, Li Zan specifically invited Song Ran to return to Liangcheng with him.

When the wedding day arrived, Song Ran dressed up carefully before meeting Li Zan. Li Zan’s colleagues were surprised by how beautiful Song Ran looked. During the wedding, many women approached Song Ran to chat with her because of her renowned photography work. Luo Zhan originally brought Dr. Liang to the wedding, hoping to use the occasion to talk some sense into Li Zan. However, upon seeing that Li Zan had brought his girlfriend, Luo Zhan apologized to Dr. Liang. Dr.

Liang had actually come to talk to Luo Zhan instead. During Li Zan’s previous treatment, he had already expressed to Dr. Liang his desire to return to Dongguo. Moreover, his recovery had been going well. Yet, Luo Zhan remained firmly opposed to Li Zan going back, fearing that he would suffer even greater harm. In response, Dr. Liang showed Luo Zhan a video from their last real-life CS simulation game.

While they were discussing this, Li Zan happened to see them. Li Zan told Luo Zhan that his decision to return was not just for himself. Seeing the war-torn country in ruins, he wanted to do something for the people there. At the same time, it was also a way to completely heal his inner wounds. Moreover, he was doing this for Song Ran as well—he hoped that once he was fully healed, he could give her a grand wedding.

Under the joint persuasion of both Li Zan and Dr. Liang, Luo Zhan finally agreed to support Li Zan’s decision to go to Dongguo. During the wedding, everyone played games together, making the event lively and entertaining. Song Ran experienced a different kind of wedding celebration. That night, after returning home, the two of them had a sweet conversation. As emotions ran high, they couldn’t help but share a deep kiss.

Since Song Ran was leaving the next day, Li Zan woke up early to prepare a warm breakfast for her before gently waking her up. On the way to the airport, Song Ran mentioned to Li Zan that she wanted to adjust the concept of her program. Li Zan immediately guessed that she was doing this to avoid returning to Dongguo. Hearing his words, Song Ran’s mood instantly dropped—she still wasn’t ready to face the memories of the explosion.

Seeing her distress, Li Zan chose not to push the conversation further. He didn’t want to force Song Ran into confronting something she wasn’t ready for. Li Zan’s application to be a volunteer in Dongguo was quickly approved, which made him feel suspicious—it had happened far too fast. To get more information, he called Benjamin to inquire about the situation in Dongguo.

That was when he learned that the armed rebels had been negotiating with the government for the release of their leader, Ark. The government had refused their demands, and as a result, the rebels had begun a violent retaliation, targeting civilians and causing heavy casualties. There was now an urgent need for a volunteer to help with mine clearance. Realizing that he had said too much, Benjamin quickly changed the subject.

Benjamin said that Song Ran and Li Zan were mutually in love, but he and Pei Xiaonan didn’t want to deal with their unpredictable relationship. Li Zan thought that Pei Xiaonan was impressive, as she had managed to make Benjamin, a notorious playboy, settle down. Sa Xin came over to find Benjamin, reminding him that he was supposed to go to the hospital to get his bandages removed.

Benjamin asked Sa Xin if he knew about Song Ran and Li Zan, saying that they were together and seemed quite happy. Sa Xin responded that it was no surprise. Sa Xin mentioned that he hadn’t been in touch with them much, and Benjamin understood what he meant. Sa Xin didn’t want to let the people and situations here affect them any longer.

At the hospital, Benjamin got his stitches removed, and Pei Xiaonan said there was just one last stitch left. She asked Sa Xin if he wanted to take revenge. Sa Xin agreed without hesitation. Someone came to find Pei Xiaonan, saying that a child injured in the explosion had been brought in. Pei Xiaonan and the others quickly rushed over. Benjamin called Li Zan, intending to talk about the child, but he hesitated and didn’t mention it.

Li Zan couldn’t get in touch with Jiang Yu, so he asked a teacher to help bring Jiang Yu to him. Li Zan told the teacher that he might be leaving for a while. He would first go back to Xiguo, then head to Dongguo. Jiang Yu was unhappy when he heard this, thinking they should just go and do whatever they wanted without bothering to inform him—it had nothing to do with him anyway. Jiang Yu said this and left.

Li Zan sent Jiang Yu a message with an old photo, saying that they had actually met when Jiang Yu was a child, and it seemed they were very fated to know each other. Jiang Yu felt frustrated. If they were fated, then why did everyone keep leaving him? He originally wanted to delete the photo, but in the end, he didn’t. Li Zan went to see Luo Zhan and told him that he was planning to return to Dongguo.

Although Luo Zhan was worried about him, he didn’t say much. Li Zan met with Song Ran and told her that he had been considering going back to Dongguo. Song Ran asked if Li Zan still planned to do volunteer work, and Li Zan confirmed that it was something he was considering, but it would depend on the assessment later. The two of them were supposed to return to the hotel, but they were reluctant to leave.

They kept walking back and forth in the hotel corridor. Li Zan joked that, since they were doing this, they might as well cancel the room and just spend the night in the corridor. It should be free, right? Song Ran’s mother called her, asking how long she planned to stay with the mysterious friend and if she wasn’t going to let her meet him. She told Song Ran to bring him over for lunch the next day.

Song Ran was surprised to find out that her mother already knew. She had thought she had managed to keep it a secret. Li Zan asked about Song Ran’s mother, and Song Ran explained that her mother had always been strong-willed. At first, her family had opposed her marrying Song Ran’s father, but she was very determined. Even though they fought a lot later on, she insisted on staying in the marriage.

One day, Song Ran’s father’s current wife brought a child over, claiming that the child was Song Ran’s father’s. Song Ran’s mother initially wanted to take Song Ran away, but her father refused, saying that the people back home would laugh at him. He said they could go to court if it came to that. Song Ran’s mother gave up. Song Ran said she didn’t blame her, but she actually did feel a bit resentful.

She thought that her mother was very persistent in other matters, so why did she give up on this? Song Ran felt awkward every day because she had to watch the three of them together. Li Zan comforted Song Ran, saying that she had every right to be upset. They had dinner together, and Song Ran’s mother asked Li Zan a lot of questions about him and his family.

Song Ran’s mother went to touch up her makeup, and Song Ran felt that Li Zan and his family were all very nice. But Song Ran’s mother didn’t think her father would approve, because he wanted her to marry someone rich and powerful. Song Ran’s mother said that Song Ran could get hurt, but she couldn’t suffer emotional pain. Song Ran’s mother told Li Zan not to stay at the hotel anymore, and that he should stay at their house. Later that night, Song Ran secretly slipped into Li Zan’s room.

Song Ran had brought her laptop along, and she and Li Zan watched cartoons together. Li Zan mentioned that he had already seen those cartoons. He had been curious when he saw Song Ran enjoying them so much, so he decided to watch them too. Song Ran suddenly thought of something her mother had said and asked Li Zan if he would ever betray her.

Li Zan made a solemn vow, but Song Ran told him not to say such things. Both Song Ran and Li Zan heard her mother coughing. Song Ran explained that her mother had been sick before and hadn’t recovered completely. Li Zan mentioned that Song Ran's mother looked quite unwell today, but after touching up her makeup, she seemed a bit better. He suggested that they should take her to the hospital to get checked.

They went to the hospital, and Dr. He came over to find Song Ran. He brought up Song Ran's boyfriend. Song Ran explained that Li Zan had gone for a follow-up check at the ENT department. Dr. He said that he had just seen someone who had claimed to be there for a walk, but he overheard them calling out "Ran Ran. " Dr. He wondered if it was the same Song Ran he knew and decided to check.

It turned out, he had overthought it. Song Ran said that Li Zan was like that—he had improved a lot, but he still didn’t want her to accompany him, worried that it would make her anxious. Li Zan returned just then, and Song Ran introduced him to Dr. He. Dr. He mentioned that he had met Song Ran’s mother at the ophthalmology department. He had heard that Song Ran was there, so he stopped by to say hello.

Li Zan thought that since Dr. He had met Song Ran’s mother in the ophthalmology department, which was near the entrance, it was likely that her mother hadn’t had her follow-up checkup. Sure enough, Song Ran’s mother sent a message saying that she had gone to work. Li Zan commented that Song Ran was right—her mother really was strong-willed. Li Zan had to leave, and Song Ran accompanied him to the airport. They were both reluctant to part.

Song Ran’s mother saw that Song Ran was crying and told her not to get too invested. What if she encountered someone who would deceive her? Song Ran told her mother not to think the worst of everyone. Not everyone would betray her like her father did. Song Ran realized she had said something wrong and felt embarrassed. Song Ran’s mother thought about how Song Ran hadn’t grown up with her but still turned out so similar to her.

While riding her bike, Song Ran collided with a rock and lost vision. She went to the hospital for a check-up. Dr. He said it wasn’t too serious and prescribed some drops. If her condition didn’t improve, she would need surgery. Song Ran asked Dr. He for a favor, but he said she wasn’t cooperating. Song Ran replied that she would only cooperate if her mother went for a check-up first. Dr. He had no choice but to agree.

In reality, Song Ran’s mother had already been examined. There were shadows in her lungs, and she needed further checks. Song Ran’s mother had also made arrangements for her inheritance and felt that the biggest regret of her life was not insisting on keeping Song Ran with her. She now wanted to spend more time with Song Ran and let fate take its course. Li Zan called, but Song Ran’s mother thought it was a telemarketing call and hung up.

Song Ran quickly called back, telling her mother to avoid the call. Li Zan still needed to pass an assessment before he could continue volunteering. When Li Zan was defusing a bomb, he thought of Jiang Lin. Song Ran’s condition hadn’t improved. Dr. He said that surgery was necessary and it would take about two to three weeks to recover. Song Ran thought that Li Zan would be back in two days, but she felt it was too soon.

She wanted to find a reason to delay his return. Song Ran’s mother felt this was the perfect time for Li Zan to take care of Song Ran, but Song Ran still wasn’t willing. Didn’t she want Li Zan to stop worrying? Luo Zhan received a call saying that Li Zan had failed the assessment—or rather, that Li Zan hadn’t even taken the test. Luo Zhan was confused about the situation. The caller also found it strange, so they checked the surveillance footage and saw that Li Zan had been pacing in his room the whole time.

Li Zan called Song Ran and told her that he would need some more time before he could return. The assessment had been postponed, and he still had to stay there for a while longer. Song Ran said that she was about to go for an interview with some people. Song Ran's mother came over, and Song Ran mentioned that her mother had called her to dinner. Her mother didn’t say anything to expose her.

Song Ran asked her mother why the test results hadn’t come back yet, but her mother didn’t answer. Li Zan sent a message to Luo Zhan, telling him that this assessment was his fault, but he wanted to try again. Dr. He told Song Ran that her eyes were recovering well, and she should continue with the medication and come back if there were any problems. After they got back, Song Ran’s mother gave her the test report to read.

It turned out she was in the mid-stage of lung cancer. Song Ran was heartbroken and asked why her mother hadn’t told her sooner. Did she want to wait until Song Ran had to undergo surgery first? She was frustrated, feeling like her mother couldn't understand the urgency of the situation.

Song Ran’s mother gave her some important documents, like property and bank card details, telling her that everything she had would be left to her since Song Ran was her only child. Song Ran urged her mother to go to the hospital, but her mother refused, saying she still had a lot of work left to handle. Song Ran couldn’t understand why her mother cared about work at a time like this.

If her health was bad, how could she continue working? Her mother said she had nothing left in her life but work. Song Ran responded, saying that her mother only had her, and she only had one mother—how could her mother say she had no other important things? In the end, Song Ran’s mother agreed to go for treatment. Many of her colleagues came to see her and needed her to handle some work-related matters.

Li Zan called Song Ran again, saying that he wanted to practice more and become more confident. When Song Ran returned to the hospital room, she saw that her mother’s colleagues were still there, working. She was upset and asked why the company didn’t send anyone else to handle this, making her mother work under these conditions.

Her mother explained that Song Ran had been by her side for several days without resting, so she was irritable, asking them not to take it personally. She said that when she was gone, if Song Ran needed anything, they should try to help her as much as they could. That way, it wouldn’t be a waste of all the support she had given them. The colleagues all agreed. Song Ran asked her mother if she didn’t feel any discomfort.

Her mother admitted that she did feel bad, but that was exactly why she had to keep working. She had spent her whole life focusing on her career, and though it was difficult, she had achieved something and could leave her experience behind for the younger generation. She was content with that. Song Ran asked if her mother truly didn’t want to see her father one last time. Her mother replied that she didn’t want to see him.

She hated him, and all her life, she had been strong, only to have her pride trampled by him. When she passed away, she didn’t want him to attend her funeral. Song Ran promised her that. Song Ran’s mother then told her that life shouldn’t be measured by how long it is. There are some things that, even if others don’t support you, if you know they’re right, you must do them.

She spoke about a photo from when Song Ran won an award. Her mother had been in pain and bedridden for several days after that, and when she saw the photo, she realized she hadn’t helped her daughter when she needed it. She deeply regretted not having insisted on keeping Song Ran by her side when she was younger.

Song Ran had been upset with her mother before, but now that her mother had expressed regret, she no longer held onto the anger. Benjamin called Li Zan and told him that Solon had died. He had been playing with a group of kids by the river when he accidentally stepped on a landmine. Li Zan was devastated, not believing that Solon, after everything he had been through, still couldn’t escape such a fate.

The doctor told Song Ran that her mother’s cancer cells were not well controlled. Song Ran called Li Zan and asked when he would be back. She told him about her mother’s illness and said that she couldn’t handle everything on her own anymore. Li Zan reassured her, telling her not to worry, that he would be back soon. Song Ran’s mother developed pneumonia due to a lung infection and was rushed into the emergency room.

Song Ran was extremely anxious and waited outside. Dr. He came over to talk to her, telling her that her mother was now in the intensive care unit and that he couldn’t see her either. He suggested that Song Ran go home and rest, but she refused, saying she would stay and wait outside. Li Zan called Song Ran, telling her that he was on a layover and still had six hours before he could return.

He asked her to wait a bit longer. Song Ran continued to wait at the door, and when she saw Dr. He coming, she thought it was Li Zan. But then, Li Zan arrived, and Song Ran rushed to hug him. He comforted her. After Song Ran fell asleep, Li Zan went out to buy her some food. When she woke up and found Li Zan missing, she became very anxious. Li Zan told her to eat something first.

Li Zan explained that he had talked to the doctor. Her mother’s condition wasn’t as bad as they thought. She had a bacterial infection in her lungs, but they had already put her on a machine to help her breathe. As long as the bacteria could be killed, she would get through the hardest part. Li Zan then talked about his own mother. He was very young when she passed away.

He remembered that on the day she died, she had stroked his face and said, "A Zan is still so young. " At the time, he didn’t understand, but he wiped her tears, and she told him he was very good. Song Ran asked Li Zan how his life changed after his mother’s death. Li Zan said it didn’t change much, but when he saw other kids with their mothers, he would miss his own mother a lot.

Song Ran said that if her mother couldn’t be cured, there would be a huge hole in her heart. Li Zan comforted her. Li Zan had a nightmare, reliving the explosion. When he woke up, he still couldn’t calm down. Song Ran and Li Zan returned home, and Song Ran noticed that the fridge was almost empty. She realized that her mother had been living like this.

Li Zan told her that with Song Ran and her mother, they could buy more things for the house. As they cooked together, Song Ran almost knocked something off the shelf while reaching into the cabinet. Li Zan quickly blocked it for her and asked, “Don’t you know how to avoid things falling down? ” Song Ran replied, “Maybe subconsciously, I just thought this thing wouldn’t fall on me.

”Li Zan made Song Ran a bowl of simple noodles, and she was surprised by how good his cooking was. She told him, “I wish I had met you when I was younger. If I had learned to make this bowl of noodles from you, I wouldn’t have to feel so awkward eating with Aunt Yang and Dad. When I wanted noodles, I could just make them for myself.

”Li Zan said that in the future, they would have their own home, and no one in it would be someone they didn’t like. Song Ran’s mother’s lung infection had been controlled, and they could proceed with targeted treatment. She was transferred to a regular hospital room. Song Ran’s mother asked Li Zan what he liked about Song Ran. Li Zan replied that she had many flaws—she was stubborn, didn’t know how to adapt, and had a bad temper.

Li Zan explained that he hadn’t thought about it before, but he just really liked being with Song Ran. As for the flaws her mother mentioned, he didn’t see them that way. He thought she was very kind and strong in sticking to her own beliefs. Song Ran’s mother asked Li Zan if he would go back to Dongguo. Li Zan said that he would, as he had many friends there who had been through life and death with him.

He wanted to go back to help them. Song Ran’s eyesight was still not good. Dr. He explained that if the antibiotics didn’t work, she would need a corneal transplant, but the results weren’t very promising.

Li Zan received the news that his flight ticket had been booked. He wanted to go out to find Song Ran, but hesitated. Song Ran, on the other hand, was outside the door, wanting to find Li Zan but still couldn’t bring herself to open the door. Both of them were on opposite sides of the door, neither willing to take the first step. The next day, Li Zan woke up, and Song Ran came over.

She said she hoped they wouldn’t be apart for such long periods in the future. Li Zan reassured her that they wouldn't be apart for long again. Song Ran wanted Li Zan to cook something for lunch, saying her mother was tired of the food at the hospital. Li Zan asked Song Ran what her mother wanted to eat, but the dishes Song Ran ordered were all things she liked herself. Li Zan didn’t point this out.

Song Ran wanted to go to the hospital but her vision suddenly became blurry. She didn’t show it, instead telling Li Zan to come over early so that neither she nor her mother would go hungry. When she arrived at the hospital, she found her mother watching an animated show. Her mother said she wanted to see what was so good about these shows that Song Ran liked so much.

Song Ran’s mother noticed that Song Ran’s eyes were quite red and asked her what happened. Song Ran explained that she had already used eye drops, and the inflammation would take time to heal, assuring her mother that there was nothing to worry about. Li Zan brought food to Song Ran. As her vision blurred again, it took a while for her to realize it was Li Zan. She rushed over and hugged him.

Afterwards, Song Ran and Li Zan went to a shop together and made matching couple’s red strings. Back home, Song Ran and Li Zan watched more animated shows together. Although they were spending time together, Song Ran felt it wasn’t enough. She wanted to redo all the things they had done before. When Song Ran went to the hospital for a check-up, Dr. He noticed that she hadn’t told Li Zan about the situation.

Song Ran said she was willing to bear any problems on her own. Dr. He informed her that there was a special medicine for the bacteria infecting her eyes, and it had a very good effect. Upon hearing that she wouldn’t go blind, Song Ran felt relieved and happy. Shen Bei called Song Ran, asking if she wanted to come to Dongguo.

Shen Bei said she saw Li Zan’s name on the new volunteer list and thought Song Ran would be coming with him. Song Ran explained that her mother was sick, and she had to stay to accompany her for now, so she couldn’t go. She also asked Li Zan why he was going to Dongguo without telling her.

Li Zan didn’t want to worry Song Ran, and every time he was about to tell her, he didn’t know how to explain. Song Ran asked Li Zan if he passed the bomb disposal exam. He hadn’t passed. Song Ran thought it was too dangerous for him to go now. Li Zan mentioned that Benjamin had called him, but he didn’t mention that Sulong had died.

He said the situation in Dongguo was very bad, and if Benjamin weren’t such a terrible person, he wouldn’t have called. Li Zan wanted to go there to do something for them. He knew how hard things had been for Song Ran when she was alone, so he wanted to stay with her first and go after her mother’s targeted treatment was finished. Song Ran felt that even if it was postponed, it could only be delayed for so long.

Li Zan would still need to go eventually. She asked when the flight they booked was, and Li Zan told her it was today. Song Ran took Li Zan to the airport and told him to stay safe on his journey, which would take quite some time. She reminded him to rest well. Later, Song Ran sent Li Zan a message, proposing to break up with him.

When Li Zan arrived in Dongguo, he happened to see a woman crying while holding a photo. Sa Xin told Li Zan that the woman’s boyfriend was a bomb disposal officer, but he was killed during a mission when someone shot him from a distance. Li Zan thought about contacting Song Ran but hesitated for a long time. In the end, he didn’t send the message.

Song Ran's mother was discharged from the hospital. Song Ran suggested they stay at her hometown for a while, saying the smog in this area during winter was too severe and bad for health. However, her mother felt that since they were going back home, she should start working again. She also mentioned that her hometown was damp and cold, making it easier to develop rheumatism.

Song Ran's mother asked if she had argued with Li Zan, and if it was because of Li Zan's trip to Dongguo. Song Ran felt that Li Zan had told her mother, but hadn’t told her. Her mother explained that she had asked Li Zan, and that’s why he shared it with her. Her mother then asked what Song Ran was angry about, saying that when she saw Li Zan last, he was already volunteering in Dongguo.

Song Ran's mother believed that a man can love a woman, but shouldn’t follow her completely. Likewise, a woman shouldn’t be dependent on a man. If they were in sync, they should be together, but if they weren’t, it was better to separate. Song Ran thought that it was indeed her own problem. If she were stronger and not sick, she might have gone to Dongguo by now.

Her mother apologized, telling Song Ran not to put so much pressure on herself. Back in her room, Song Ran regretted breaking up with Li Zan. She called the driver to ask about Li Zan’s situation. Shen Bei accidentally mentioned that Sulong had died, which shocked Song Ran. She told her mother that she wanted to go back to Dongguo, as she seemed to understand why Li Zan had to return.

It was a sense of responsibility—she had already formed bonds with the people there and the land itself, and these connections couldn't be severed so easily. Song Ran’s mother said she wouldn’t stop Song Ran from going back, but she had one condition: Song Ran should wait a month before returning. This would give her time to think things through carefully and not make decisions out of impulse.

A lot had happened before, and Song Ran needed some time to adjust. Song Ran agreed. Li Zan and the team went to clear landmines. Li Zan saw a building nearby and went to check it out. This was where he had first met Song Ran, when he helped her defuse a bomb she had stepped on.

Sa Xin asked Benjamin if he knew anything, as he noticed that Li Zan seemed different this time, wondering if Li Zan had had a fight with Song Ran. Benjamin said Sa Xin didn’t understand. He mentioned he needed to go to the hospital for a check-up on his eyes, and Sa Xin joked that Benjamin's eyes had been fine for two months, unless he had a third eye.

Li Zan also had to go to the hospital and went with Benjamin. Li Zan said that Sa Xin considered Benjamin like a brother, wanting to protect him but also not wanting anyone else to take him away. Benjamin thought to himself, no wonder things were so complicated. Li Zan saw it as a good thing, like gaining another family member. Dr. Pei saw them and worried they had gotten injured.

Benjamin casually explained that he was just accompanying Li Zan, and they had planned to casually bump into Dr. Pei at the small bar. Li Zan went to check on a patient whose physical injuries were nearly healed, but he often got angry. Li Zan gave the patient a portable music player, telling him that he had been through something similar before, and listening to music could make him feel better. The patient calmed down after listening to the music.

Sa Xin came over to find Li Zan, asking him to teach him how to defuse bombs. Someone came to find Sa Xin, saying that a new bomb disposal officer had reported for duty and needed help with accommodation. This person was recommended by Li Zan. Sa Xin asked Li Zan why, saying that the previous bomb disposal officer had sacrificed his life because he lacked experience and ran in the wrong direction during a retreat.

Sa Xin and Li Zan were already familiar with each other and knew the risks weren’t that high, so he didn’t want any newcomers. Li Zan showed Sa Xin his credentials, explaining that he had passed the landmine clearance exam but hadn’t passed the bomb disposal one. X came to see Benjamin, asking if he knew what had happened to Li Zan. Benjamin didn’t know either.

Song Ran arrived in Dongguo and passed by the building where Li Zan had saved her before. She went up to take a look. Song Ran wanted to go to the hospital but wasn’t sure if Pei Xiaonan had any news of Li Zan. When she got to the hospital, she found that the patient who had been calm before had suddenly gone wild and even held Pei Xiaonan hostage.

Li Zan arrived and played some music for the patient, which gradually helped him calm down. Li Zan managed to take the knife away from the patient and hurriedly took Pei Xiaonan for a check-up. Song Ran noticed blood on the floor, which seemed to be from when Li Zan had used the knife earlier. Li Zan reassured the patient, saying that he would be fine, as Li Zan had been through something similar himself.

Li Zan later went to a bar, where Benjamin was drinking. Li Zan told him not to wait any longer because Pei Xiaonan wouldn’t be coming; something had happened at the hospital, and Pei Xiaonan had been injured. Benjamin could visit her tomorrow. It seemed that if Li Zan said it wasn’t serious, then Pei Xiaonan’s injury shouldn’t be too severe. Li Zan was reminded of his past experiences and accidentally crushed his glass.

His wound reopened, and he paid the bar owner for the broken glass. When Song Ran returned, she couldn’t stop thinking about the patient from earlier. She felt that Li Zan must have gone through something similar before. How much pain had he been in? She wondered how he managed to keep going, and what she had done during all of that time. Benjamin locked Song Ran in a room and went to see Sa Xin.

Benjamin noticed that Sa Xin was holding his star, realizing that this was why Sa Xin had been so cooperative this time. He felt that since Sa Xin had taken his star, he should take Sa Xin’s in return. The next day, Song Ran went out for a photo shoot at the E Lai Grand Hotel, where a press conference was being held.

A male reporter nearby, holding a knife, suggested that the current situation was chaotic, and that Song Ran might need something for self-defense. He offered to give her the knife. Song Ran declined, saying she didn’t need it. As someone on stage was speaking, the reporter remarked that if Song Ran wanted to write a good story, he could help if she paid him some money.

As Song Ran left, she found a knife in her bag, though she had no idea when the reporter had placed it there. Li Zan appeared and was surprised to see her. He took the knife from her, saying it was too dangerous and not suitable for her. Song Ran remembered the gloves she had seen in that building earlier and wondered if they belonged to Li Zan.

She also wondered if Li Zan had come to the hotel because he was following her. At the hospital, Song Ran saw that Li Zan had come as well. Someone greeted him, and Song Ran felt that he was just coincidentally there, realizing she had been reading too much into things. She went to find Pei Xiaonan, who was happy to see her. Pei Xiaonan asked if Song Ran had told Li Zan she was in Dongguo.

Song Ran said she hadn’t, which surprised Pei Xiaonan. Song Ran added that things were a bit complicated between them right now. Pei Xiaonan thought Song Ran and Li Zan were a perfect match. Pei Xiaonan mentioned that Benjamin and the others were carrying out a mission near E Lai, with their camp set up at the same place as before. Song Ran could visit them, and they would be happy to see her.

However, they were in training today, so she could visit them tomorrow. Song Ran joked that she would go because she missed them after so long. She also asked how Pei Xiaonan knew so much about their situation. Pei Xiaonan awkwardly admitted that someone had told her.

Song Ran arrived at the camp, and Sa Xin was very happy to see her. He started talking about Li Zan, mentioning that Li Zan had been acting strangely since he returned. Sa Xin recalled an instance when they were on a mission, and Li Zan didn’t rush in immediately, which was very unlike him.

Sa Xin said that recently, Li Zan had been frequently visiting the hospital, and he believed that people who are meant to meet again will always find their way back to each other, no matter what they’ve gone through. When Song Ran got to the hospital, she saw Li Zan playing with a few children, trying to toss stones into a bottle. The children invited her to join, but she kept missing the shot.

Li Zan showed the other children how to throw, and when Song Ran tried again, she actually got it in. She wanted to tell Li Zan, but he had already left. Benjamin happened to see her from upstairs. Later, Benjamin came back and asked Sa Xin if he had sent Song Ran to the hospital.

Sa Xin clarified that he hadn’t, he had just told her that Li Zan was at the hospital, and Song Ran had gone on her own. Sa Xin then asked Benjamin how things were between Song Ran and Li Zan. Benjamin replied that Li Zan was still young and wouldn’t understand, telling Sa Xin not to interfere. Sa Xin then demanded that Benjamin return his star.

Benjamin denied taking it, teasing that if he had taken it, then what was hanging around Sa Xin’s neck? Sa Xin was left speechless. Benjamin mentioned that they had a training session tomorrow and wondered if Song Ran would be interested in taking photos, as Li Zan would be there too. Sa Xin remarked that Benjamin still wasn’t minding his own business. When Li Zan went out, he encountered two children, which reminded him of Suolong and Xiya.

He took the children to an orphanage, and Xiya arrived as well. Li Zan gave her a ring engraved with Suolong’s name, saying that this way, Xiya wouldn’t forget Suolong, and Suolong would always be with her. The next day, Song Ran came for the photo shoot. Benjamin explained that the enemy often hid in abandoned buildings, posing a threat to them, so they had to blow them up. Li Zan and Sa Xin had already planted the bombs.

Li Zan instructed Sa Xin to detonate them, and Sa Xin remarked that he hadn’t had a chance like this before, but now, with Song Ran’s arrival, he felt lucky. Once the explosion was over, Benjamin told Li Zan to take care of Song Ran. Li Zan and the team were still checking the area when a man was dragging a woman and child. The child was unwilling to leave, but the man claimed he wasn’t a bad person.

Just then, the explosion went off, and Li Zan pulled Song Ran away from the danger. Li Zan asked Song Ran where she was going next. Song Ran replied that she was heading to Bride Village for a shoot. Li Zan warned her that it was dangerous there and insisted that she wait for him so he could escort her. Song Ran refused, saying she didn’t need him to drive her and wouldn’t wait for him.

As Song Ran was driving, she was on the way when Li Zan caught up with her. He pointed out that her car was too slow and asked her to ride with him. Li Zan drove her to Bride Village, where they saw a man negotiating the price of his daughter. Another man nearby was shouting, and Li Zan commented that the man used to be a soldier.

Not being able to protect his own women and children was the saddest thing. Song Ran said she no longer wanted to take photos. She admitted that she suddenly couldn’t see the point in doing such things. She felt powerless to stop what was happening, and even if she told others, no one seemed to care. Li Zan said that if these things were passed down, they could at least inform others that such things were happening here.

Song Ran remarked that Li Zan always seemed so determined and firm in his beliefs. She realized she had never seen him confused. Li Zan didn’t respond.

The special forces suddenly received orders to be transferred to He Pu, and Li Zan also applied to go along. Benjamin didn’t want Li Zan to accompany them because although there was no clear directive for this move, Benjamin had a feeling that something major was happening in He Pu, and it would definitely be dangerous. However, Li Zan insisted on going, wanting to do something for himself.

Benjamin agreed, but advised Li Zan to say goodbye to Song Ran before leaving. After returning to the dormitory, Li Zan saw the message Song Ran had sent him, and he readily agreed to her request. When Song Ran saw the message, she was very excited. Benjamin worried about the danger of having Li Zan follow them, so he entrusted Li Zan to Sa Xin, telling him to make sure Li Zan stays in a safe place if any danger arises.

The next day, Li Zan arrived at the hotel on a motorcycle to pick up Song Ran. Song Ran was very excited and had woken up early, but she tried to save face and lied, saying she couldn’t sleep because the room was too bright. Li Zan assumed that Song Ran hadn’t hung up the curtains and took the initiative to hang them up for her.

However, due to poor soundproofing in the room, they could hear a couple from next door, and the atmosphere became awkward. Both Li Zan and Song Ran were at a loss for what to do. When they got on the motorcycle, Song Ran hesitated but eventually wrapped her arms around Li Zan’s waist. Upon arriving at their destination, they saw a soldier who seemed uncomfortable when he saw Song Ran. This confused Song Ran.

The commander of the unit came over and immediately recognized Song Ran as the journalist who had filmed a promotional video for their country. He expressed his gratitude, saying that Song Ran had used emotions to showcase the current state of their country to the world. The commander then brought the previously uncomfortable soldier over and gave Li Zan a gift. He also shared Li Zan’s heroic deeds with Song Ran, which moved her even more.

He mentioned that the soldier saw Song Ran as an idol. Song Ran was happy to hear that and agreed to take a photo of the soldier. However, due to the camera running out of battery, she only managed to take one photo, which wasn’t perfect, and didn’t capture any videos or the soldier’s bright smile. On their way back, Li Zan and Song Ran learned that a special forces member was holding a wedding on the ruins.

They decided to attend. Benjamin was also happy to see his subordinate getting married. He and Sa Xin talked about their dreams at the wedding. Benjamin told Sa Xin that if he were to die in battle, he hoped to finish studying modern literature after graduation, as it was his dream. Li Zan and Song Ran arrived at the wedding and congratulated the newlyweds. Song Ran also used her camera to capture this rare and beautiful moment.

Watching the wedding, Song Ran really liked the atmosphere because all the guests were strangers, but they were sincerely offering their blessings, which made the event feel completely natural. At the wedding, Song Ran kept looking at Li Zan, but Li Zan maintained a certain distance from her. Song Ran asked if Li Zan would ever consider having a wedding at such a crucial time.

Li Zan thought about the dangerous missions ahead and the possibility that, if something happened to him, his partner would suffer unimaginable pain. He didn’t want to impose that kind of hurt on the woman he loved, so he firmly answered, “No. ” Song Ran, however, felt that this moment was the happiest, and the wedding had made them view things differently.

She was a little saddened and remarked that she wished the sun would never rise again, hoping that the happiness and beauty of the moment would last forever.

Looking at the beautiful scene, it seemed very likely that it would disappear the next day, possibly turning into a tragedy. Song Ran also thought about the disagreement with Li Zan regarding marriage and remembered how many nurses at the hospital were trying to please him. She couldn’t help feeling a bit jealous. Thinking about their past together, she couldn’t hold back her tears. Suddenly, her vision went blurry.

Just at that moment, Li Zan rushed over and, upon learning that Song Ran’s eyes were bothering her, quickly took her to a brighter place. Song Ran finally mustered the courage to express her feelings to Li Zan. Li Zan understood, but didn’t let her finish because he had to go to a very dangerous place. Song Ran was also very concerned about his safety.

Just as they were comforting each other, the assembly whistle for the special forces went off. Li Zan had to leave. After just reuniting, they had to face another separation. When Song Ran arrived at the wedding venue, she couldn’t find a special forces member. At that moment, Pei Xiaonan walked over and told Song Ran that the nurses at the hospital had invited Li Zan to dance, but Li Zan had refused because he already had someone he liked.

Everyone knew that the person he liked was Song Ran. Pei Xiaonan was also worried about Benjamin’s reassurance. However, she didn’t want to wait idly, so she had already signed up to join the medical team going to He Pu as a surprise for Benjamin. Song Ran, encouraged by Pei Xiaonan, gathered her courage and decided to go with her to He Pu. The next day, the entire city was thrown into chaos. The streets were filled with injured civilians.

Song Ran saw the commander she knew heading off to investigate. She learned that the entire city of E Lai was in danger. At this time, the terrorists released a video. They had captured a soldier—none other than the soldier who was Song Ran’s fan. The terrorists were livestreaming his execution, but the soldier refused to give in and was brutally beaten. After seeing the video, Benjamin led 12 special forces soldiers into battle against the terrorists.

Song Ran followed the military to Matu, where Sa Xin ran over to inform them that the special forces had already engaged the terrorists in combat, and one special forces soldier had been injured—he was the one who had gotten married earlier. Song Ran was relieved to see that Li Zan was safe. Everyone was discussing military matters, and Song Ran knew she couldn’t interrupt.

The special forces were discussing a second assault with the military commander who had come to assist. However, the terrorists had placed explosives around the temple, ready to detonate it at any moment. They had to defuse the bombs first before they could safely launch the attack. Benjamin assigned Sa Xin to a safer position. The attack officially began, and Song Ran gathered her courage to find a good vantage point to capture the battle scenes.

Benjamin and Li Zan, using the smoke from Sa Xin’s artillery fire for cover, slowly advanced towards the temple. At that moment, Li Zan’s condition started to affect him again, his movements becoming slower. A grenade exploded right next to Li Zan, and Song Ran was worried. In her heart, she kept calling his name. Finally, Li Zan overcame his psychological barrier, stood up bravely, and followed Benjamin into the temple. Li Zan successfully defused the bomb the terrorists had planted.

With the obstacles removed, the attack could proceed without hesitation. Under the soldiers' assault, the terrorists were quickly defeated. Li Zan was injured, but when he heard that Song Ran was also there, he ran to find her. At the same time, Song Ran was also searching for Li Zan. They were both frantically looking for each other, but kept missing each other by a hair’s breadth.

Eventually, Li Zan found Song Ran’s camera in the place where she had been filming earlier. He sat next to it and fell asleep. At that moment, Song Ran arrived, and seeing Li Zan asleep, she couldn’t bear to wake him. She quietly sat beside him.

Benjamin came to find Sa Xin and asked why he was there, when he had been told not to fire the cannons and not to go to the battlefield. Sa Xin told Benjamin to lock him up if he wanted, but Benjamin replied that the war was over, so why would he still lock him up? Benjamin then asked where Sa Xin’s star had gone. Sa Xin realized his star was missing and wanted to go back and find it.

Benjamin pointed out that, strictly speaking, Sa Xin had lost his own star. Benjamin gave his star to Sa Xin, but Sa Xin felt that since Benjamin’s star was lost, he should go and find it too. Sa Xin told Benjamin to go back, but Benjamin insisted it wasn’t possible, as Reina would blame him. Meanwhile, someone was hiding in the shadows, taking a shot at them. Benjamin noticed and shot the person, but he was also hit.

Benjamin had just found the star. Pei Xiaonan helped Benjamin treat his wound, and when Song Ran heard the news, she came as well. Sa Xin expressed his gratitude to Song Ran, Li Zan, and Benjamin. When Li Zan woke up, he found that Song Ran was missing. The nurse saw him and said that his wound should be treated. Li Zan replied that the team had basic medical supplies and that he would clean it himself before applying medicine.

The nurse noticed the red string on Li Zan’s wrist and asked if it was a gift from his family. Li Zan replied that it was a gift from his girlfriend. When Li Zan returned, Sa Xin informed him that Song Ran and the injured had already gone to the hospital and asked Li Zan to say a word to them. Song Ran and Li Zan were on the street, seeing everyone celebrating their victory, and they were both very happy.

They saw each other and walked toward each other, embracing deeply. When they returned to the hotel, Song Ran said that both she and Li Zan had things on their minds. Li Zan saw the medicine that Song Ran was taking and wondered if it had something to do with him. Song Ran assured him that it was her own issue and had nothing to do with Li Zan. Li Zan felt that it was all his fault.

He shouldn’t have left Song Ran when she needed him most, and he shouldn’t have failed to clarify things with her before. Song Ran told him it wasn’t his fault; it was because of everything that had happened before, and then her mother’s illness. She reassured him that she was fine now and hadn’t taken that bottle of medicine in a long time. Song Ran didn’t want Li Zan to change his mind just because she was sick.

Li Zan replied that he understood what she meant. They cleared up their thoughts and feelings, and Song Ran confessed that she had regretted it long ago and didn’t want to separate from Li Zan. Li Zan also liked Song Ran, and they embraced each other deeply. Li Zan had been injured, and Song Ran treated his wounds. She said that she was fine now, but Li Zan understood that being sick wasn’t the end of the world.

He too had many struggles he had to face. Song Ran said that if Li Zan wanted to tell her something, he could, but they still had a long time together in the future. Li Zan asked Song Ran to tell him a story. Song Ran shared a story from her childhood that she found very sad. Li Zan, however, thought the story was a love story, where the matchstick warmed the little bird.

He would also be the match that warmed Song Ran. Benjamin’s foot was injured and he was staying in the hospital. He said he wanted to go to a bar and asked Sa Xin to take him there. Sa Xin disagreed, thinking that Benjamin was already injured and shouldn’t be drinking. Benjamin said he had arranged to meet Pei Xiaonan, so Sa Xin could only get a wheelchair and take Benjamin to the bar. Benjamin reassured him that Pei Xiaonan would take him back, so Sa Xin didn’t need to wait for him. Sa Xin left directly.

Benjamin came to find Sa Xin and asked why he was there when he had been told not to fire the cannons or go to the battlefield. Sa Xin told Benjamin to lock him up if he wanted to, but Benjamin responded that the war was over, so why would he still lock him up? Benjamin then asked where Sa Xin’s star had gone. Sa Xin realized his star was missing and wanted to go back to find it.

Benjamin pointed out that, strictly speaking, Sa Xin had lost his own star. Benjamin gave his star to Sa Xin, but Sa Xin felt that since Benjamin’s star was lost, he should go and find it too. Sa Xin told Benjamin to go back, but Benjamin insisted it wasn’t possible, as Reina would blame him. Meanwhile, someone was hiding and taking shots at them. Benjamin noticed and shot the person, but he himself was also hit.

Benjamin had just found the star. Pei Xiaonan helped Benjamin treat his wound, and when Song Ran heard the news, she also came. Sa Xin expressed his thanks to Song Ran, Li Zan, and Benjamin. Li Zan woke up and realized that Song Ran was gone. The nurse saw him and said that his wound needed to be treated.

Li Zan replied that the team had basic medical supplies and that he would clean it himself first before applying any medicine. The nurse noticed the red string on Li Zan’s wrist and asked if it was a gift from his family. Li Zan responded that it was a gift from his girlfriend.

When Li Zan returned, Sa Xin informed him that Song Ran and the injured had already gone to the hospital, and he was asked to inform Li Zan. Song Ran and Li Zan were on the street, seeing everyone celebrating their victory, and they were both very happy. When they saw each other, they walked toward one another and embraced deeply.

Later, they returned to the hotel, and Song Ran said that both she and Li Zan had things on their minds. Li Zan saw the medicine that Song Ran was taking and wondered if it had something to do with him. Song Ran reassured him that it was her issue and had nothing to do with him. Li Zan felt that it was all his fault.

He shouldn’t have left Song Ran when she needed him the most, and he shouldn’t have failed to clarify things with her before. Song Ran told him it wasn’t his fault and explained that it was due to everything that had happened before, along with her mother’s illness. She reassured him that she was fine now and hadn’t taken that bottle of medicine in a long time.

Song Ran didn’t want Li Zan to change his mind because she had been sick. Li Zan responded that he understood what she meant. They finally cleared up their thoughts and feelings. Song Ran confessed that she had regretted it for a long time and didn’t want to separate from Li Zan. Li Zan also liked Song Ran, and they embraced each other again. Li Zan had been injured, and Song Ran helped treat his wound.

She told him she was fine now, but Li Zan understood that being sick wasn’t the end of the world. He too had faced many challenges. Song Ran encouraged Li Zan to tell her anything, saying that they still had a long time ahead of them. Li Zan asked Song Ran to tell him a story. Song Ran shared a sad story from her childhood.

Li Zan, however, interpreted the story as a love story, where the matchstick warmed the little bird. He would also be the match to warm Song Ran. Benjamin had injured his foot and was staying in the hospital. He mentioned wanting to go to a bar and asked Sa Xin to take him. Sa Xin disagreed, thinking that Benjamin shouldn’t drink while injured.

Benjamin said he had made plans with Pei Xiaonan, and Sa Xin reluctantly found a wheelchair to take Benjamin to the bar. Benjamin reassured him that Pei Xiaonan would take him back, so Sa Xin didn’t need to wait. Sa Xin left. Benjamin waited at the bar, but Pei Xiaonan never showed up. In fact, when Benjamin had arranged to meet her, Pei Xiaonan had already refused. Benjamin wanted to leave, but it was difficult to push the wheelchair.

Sa Xin arrived, and Benjamin asked if he hadn’t left. Sa Xin replied that if Pei Xiaonan had come, he would have left. Sa Xin asked Benjamin if he liked Pei Xiaonan. Benjamin replied that of course, he liked her, or else he wouldn’t have paid for three months’ worth of fees. Sa Xin pointed out that Benjamin only cared about money, but Pei Xiaonan didn’t want that. What she wanted was a promise.

Benjamin replied that he was an orphan with no family, and promises were the one thing he couldn’t give. Sa Xin said that even though he knew Pei Xiaonan wouldn’t come, he still waited until the bar closed. He knew that as soldiers, they didn’t have money, and sometimes they even risked their lives. Yet, he still showed up.

He knew that Benjamin hadn’t promised to take care of him, but every time they went on a mission, Benjamin made sure to keep him out of danger. Sa Xin believed Benjamin was just being hypocritical. Benjamin asked Sa Xin if he had a death wish, and Sa Xin told him to come back and deal with him once his leg healed. Song Ran came to visit Benjamin, bringing medicine that Pei Xiaonan had asked her to bring.

Li Zan also came to visit the soldier from earlier, and noticed a walkman nearby, realizing it was something Song Ran had brought. Li Zan also visited Benjamin, and Benjamin asked if Li Zan had treated his injury. Li Zan replied that Song Ran had helped him, and Benjamin teased him for becoming bad. Sa Xin came over and said they had a mission, and they needed to move out.

Song Ran asked Li Zan if he was also going with Benjamin’s group. Li Zan wanted to help with something for Benjamin’s team. Song Ran supported him, saying there was much Li Zan could do for them. Song Ran mentioned that she hadn’t yet learned that game and wanted Li Zan to teach her. Li Zan agreed and taught her. Song Ran met Pei Xiaonan, who explained that she had come to volunteer because her boyfriend had cheated on her.

In a fit of anger, she had signed up to be a volunteer. She vowed never to listen to any man’s sweet words again. Now, even though Benjamin hadn’t said anything sweet, she still wished he would say something to win her over. Song Ran’s mother called, and she could tell that Song Ran had reconciled with Li Zan. Song Ran said she still had some things to do, and her mother advised her to be safe.

Song Ran packed her things, ready to take some photos. She found Li Zan and was glad to catch him before he left. Li Zan was also happy to see her. Before leaving, Song Ran kissed Li Zan, and everyone around them cheered. After they left, Song Ran still needed to take more photos. When she arrived at the hospital, Song Ran wanted to visit the person she had helped earlier, but he wasn’t in the ward.

She found him in the courtyard, listening to music. She was happy to see that he was doing much better. Song Ran and the man who had helped her set out for He Pu. He was carrying his father’s ashes and scattered them near He Pu, saying his father had always wanted to come here but had never made it. Now that he had arrived, he was sure his father would be happy.

Song Ran hadn’t noticed what he was doing and was surprised by the unexpected kindness of the people around her. Li Zan gave Benjamin the architectural drawings he had made and told him to pass them to Song Ran later. Li Zan mentioned that Benjamin’s injury wasn’t actually severe and that he was just pretending to deceive Sa Xin. Song Ran arrived in He Pu and was happy to meet Shen Bei.

Li Zan took Song Ran out for barbecue. During the meal, Song Ran intentionally asked Li Zan when he started liking her, which made Li Zan feel a bit awkward. He excused himself by saying he needed to buy something and left. Just then, the reporter who had previously given Song Ran a knife, along with some other people, came to eat at the same place.

Upon seeing Song Ran, the reporter spoke harshly, accusing everyone of going to dangerous places just to get some explosive news and become famous. He especially pointed out that Song Ran’s video had gone viral online, implying that Song Ran was just seeking fame. Song Ran’s intention, however, was to show the world the suffering of Dongguo, and she stood by her decision, refuting the reporter’s claims.

This angered the reporter, who was about to take action, but at that moment, Li Zan returned. When the reporter saw the tactical gear on Li Zan, he assumed Li Zan was from the special forces and sat down obediently. At this point, the owner of the barbecue restaurant came over and chased the annoying reporters away. The next day, Li Zan had a mine-clearing mission. Upon learning about it, Song Ran insisted on joining him.

Once they arrived at the site, Song Ran anxiously searched for Li Zan, and he suddenly appeared behind her. They leaned against a large tree, embracing each other and taking a sweet moment to rest. While the soldiers were searching, they discovered a dungeon. Song Ran, eager to capture footage, wanted to film the dungeon. Li Zan personally led her inside. Inside the dungeon, a family had been trapped by terrorists who had planted a bomb.

The terrorists had seen the government army coming to clear the mines, so they had already activated the bomb, and the explosive disposal team was needed immediately. There was no time left, and the only person who could disarm the bomb was Li Zan. As Li Zan prepared to defuse the bomb, memories of when he had been injured in an explosion resurfaced in his mind. Despite the mental turmoil, Li Zan remained determined.

Sa Xin initially tried to pull Song Ran out of the dungeon, but she refused to leave, worried about Li Zan. Upon seeing Li Zan’s reaction, both Song Ran and Sa Xin became worried. Sa Xin noticed that Li Zan wasn’t in the right condition to disarm the bomb and tried to persuade him to leave. However, Li Zan knew that if he left, the family in the dungeon would have no hope. He kept pushing himself, determined to continue.

At that moment, Song Ran slowly walked behind Li Zan, wrapping her arms around his waist. She decided to stay by his side, no matter the danger, and kept comforting and encouraging him. With her support, Li Zan was finally able to overcome his inner demons and successfully disarm the bomb.

Upon learning that Jiang Yu no longer blamed him, Li Zan felt a sense of relief. Just as Li Zan was feeling happy, Luo Zhan called him. Since Li Zan's volunteer period was almost over, Luo Zhan wanted him to hurry back to the country. Having successfully overcome his inner demons, Li Zan gladly agreed. Song Ran arrived at the orphanage to play with the children along with A Sai.

Li Zan and Sa Xin also came to the orphanage together. Sa Xin went to find Shen Bei to discuss the orphanage's matters. Li Zan told Song Ran that he was about to return to the country. Song Ran was very happy to hear this because she had already missed her mother and wanted to go back with Li Zan. A Sai, being considerate, took the children away, giving the two of them some alone time.

Li Zan rode a motorcycle, taking Song Ran to the outskirts, where he taught her archery. However, since she wasn't very skilled, Song Ran missed the target. She lied, saying it was because the arrow was faulty. Li Zan demonstrated for her, and during the process, Song Ran intentionally kissed him while shooting the arrow, causing Li Zan to miss as well.

Li Zan then held Song Ran in his arms, teaching her how to shoot the bow and arrow, and they looked very sweet together. As Li Zan prepared to return to the country, Benjamin discovered the last stronghold of the terrorists: a group of caves. He took Li Zan there, hoping to blow up the mines and destroy the terrorists' final base. However, they were spotted by Abu, who was driving by and recognized Li Zan.

Afterward, Li Zan carefully prepared a demolition plan. When Benjamin initiated the attack, he would simultaneously detonate 19 mines, clearing the terrorists’ last stronghold. Just as the two were discussing their plan, Sa Xin walked in. He was worried when he saw that the two were planning to go to the mountains alone. Since Li Zan had to return to the country with Song Ran in three days, he wouldn’t be able to join Benjamin's military operation.

Hearing that Li Zan wouldn’t participate, Benjamin was somewhat disappointed. Song Ran also went to the orphanage to find Shen Bei. Shen Bei told Song Ran that the International Children's Rescue Organization had sent an invitation for her to participate. Shen Bei decided to accept the invitation. Song Ran informed Shen Bei that she would be returning to the country in three days.

The two of them had already become close friends, and Shen Bei hoped Song Ran could stay a few more days until the orphanage was officially finished before leaving. Li Zan sent Song Ran a message. After reading it, Song Ran didn’t hesitate to part ways with Shen Bei and went to find Li Zan. After meeting, Song Ran told Li Zan her thoughts: she wanted to leave two days later. Li Zan readily agreed.

Meanwhile, Sa Xin and Benjamin were having a friendly competition. A group of soldiers cheered them on. No one expected that Sa Xin would win against Benjamin. Benjamin initially tried to back out of the punishment, but Sa Xin called him out, and the crowd insisted that Benjamin accept the penalty.

Sa Xin suggested that Li Zan and the others join in and have some fun. Li Zan and the others happily joined, and everyone had a great time. Song Ran cooked fish soup for everyone. Someone jokingly teased Li Zan, saying that with Song Ran cooking so well, he would be blessed once they got married and might even gain a few pounds. Benjamin walked off to one side. Sa Xin noticed and followed him.

Sa Xin asked what Benjamin was doing over there, and Benjamin replied that he didn’t want to watch them show off their affection. Sa Xin handed Benjamin a recommendation letter, hoping to encourage him to return and finish his studies. Benjamin said that he had forgotten everything he had learned before. Sa Xin reassured him, saying it didn’t matter and that he could help him review.

Benjamin replied that Sa Xin being so kind all of a sudden was a bit unexpected, to which Sa Xin said he wanted to be Benjamin’s senior. During New Year's Eve, Song Ran and Li Zan celebrated the holiday with the children at the orphanage. Benjamin and the others had already launched their attack. Li Zan didn’t say anything, but he was still worried about Benjamin and the others. Song Ran noticed this and held Li Zan’s hand.

When they saw that Benjamin’s group had launched the attack, the other side was surprised and didn’t know how they had found the location. The person who had seen Benjamin earlier recognized him as the one who had come to survey the place with Li Zan, suspecting it had something to do with Li Zan again. Song Ran asked Li Zan why he didn’t go with Benjamin’s team this time.

Li Zan explained that he wasn’t a soldier, but Benjamin and the others were. He also didn’t want to take the risk, as he was afraid and worried. More importantly, he didn’t want Song Ran to bear the consequences of his risks anymore. Li Zan led Song Ran to the yard and told her that he had prepared a gift for her: fireworks. Song Ran was surprised to find out that Li Zan had made the fireworks himself.

Song Ran set off the fireworks, and the children were delighted to see them. When Song Ran saw Shen Bei approaching, she urged her to make a wish, as the fireworks were quite magical. Shen Bei said she had to leave because she couldn’t wait for Benjamin and the others to return. She also mentioned that if she missed the flight, she would have to wait another week. However, the Children's Rescue Organization only allowed her three days to report.

As Shen Bei was about to leave, Song Ran reluctantly said goodbye and told her to visit them after returning to her country. When Benjamin and the others returned, Song Ran shared Shen Bei’s words with them. Benjamin and Sa Xin uncovered the red cloth, revealing that the orphanage was named "Reina Orphanage.

" Some of the children didn’t recognize the name Reina, and Benjamin explained that it was the person who gave him the stars, and that person would be watching over them here. Sa Xin was also touched when he heard this. Benjamin suggested that Li Zan should take a tour of the place, as he hadn’t had a good look at it himself. Since it was called Reina Orphanage, he wanted to understand more about it.

Sa Xin knew that Song Ran and the others were leaving soon. He said that he would always remember Song Ran and Li Zan, and that becoming a reporter like Song Ran was his future goal. Li Zan took Benjamin to see more of the orphanage. Benjamin noticed a TV in the area.

Li Zan asked if the battle had been intense, to which Benjamin replied that Ak had died, but there were still some fish that slipped through the net, and he would work hard to catch them all. Benjamin said he wouldn’t say too many words of gratitude, but wished Song Ran and Li Zan a safe journey.

After Benjamin and Sa Xin left, Benjamin commented that he saw the TV at the orphanage and asked Sa Xin if he wanted the children to watch TV and become reporters, eventually becoming Sa Xin’s juniors. Sa Xin replied that he hadn’t thought that far ahead but believed the children should have a chance to watch TV.

Li Zan and the others packed up their things and were preparing to leave. José came to see them off, but unexpectedly pulled out a knife and stabbed Li Zan. Song Ran was shocked, asking what José was doing. José looked pained and explained that he didn’t want to do this, but they had taken Shali, and with Benjamin and the others not around, he had no choice. Li Zan reassured Song Ran, telling her not to worry.

The stab wound wasn’t deep, just a superficial injury, not as serious as the one he had gotten before. Li Zan asked how many people they had. José replied that there was only one person. Song Ran said that if it was only one person, she could rescue him and suggested going to find Benjamin and the others for help. Li Zan told her not to panic. They would split up into two groups, and everything would be fine.

José returned and said that the task was done, but Li Zan was too heavy, and he couldn’t bring him inside. He asked someone to come and check. Abu brought Shali over and saw that Li Zan was indeed injured and lying on the ground. The walkie-talkie crackled, and someone on the other end told Abu not to kill Li Zan yet, as they still needed his help with making bombs.

Abu ordered José to cut Li Zan’s throat, and José had no choice but to approach. However, José blocked Li Zan, and Li Zan grabbed a rock, knocking Abu unconscious. Li Zan heard someone on the walkie-talkie saying they had captured Li Zan’s woman. Li Zan quickly gave chase and saw that Song Ran had been captured. The people holding Song Ran were using her to threaten Li Zan.

Song Ran told Li Zan to stay alive and that she had injured herself with the knife held by one of the captors. Li Zan was furious and charged toward the captor, but was pulled back by others. Song Ran was sent to the hospital, unconscious. Benjamin and the others were there, telling people to relay a message to Song Ran that they would definitely bring Li Zan back.

Benjamin told Sa Xin that they would be taking shifts, and Sa Xin should come in the morning to replace him. Right now, they were Li Zan’s last hope, and they needed to hold on to rescue him. Song Ran agreed. Benjamin found the place where Li Zan was held. He overheard a conversation, where someone was saying that the woman was dead, and Li Zan had actually cried.

Benjamin saw a woman, battered and bruised, lying on the ground with her back to Li Zan. She was wearing the same clothes that Song Ran had been wearing earlier, and she looked very much like Song Ran. Taking advantage of the moment when no one was around, Benjamin rescued Li Zan. Li Zan had sustained serious injuries and wasn’t fully conscious, but kept telling Song Ran to run.

Benjamin helped him escape, but they were soon spotted, and a fight broke out. More people began chasing them, but Benjamin and the others were nearly at the exit. Benjamin urged Li Zan to hold on, saying he still needed to find Song Ran. With more people arriving, Benjamin opened the door. Li Zan realized they couldn’t escape and pushed Benjamin out, slamming the door shut behind him, telling him to hurry and leave.

These people still needed Li Zan alive and wouldn’t kill him. Benjamin quickly ran back to get help, and Sa Xin woke up just in time to see Benjamin return. Song Ran regained consciousness and was told not to worry. Benjamin had found Li Zan, and Sa Xin had gone to rescue him. Li Zan was rescued and immediately taken to the operating room. When Song Ran heard this, she quickly went to wait by the door.

The doctor told Sa Xin and the others that Benjamin had suffered damage to his liver and kidneys and there was nothing more they could do. The medication given to Benjamin would only keep him awake for a short while, and if they had anything they wanted to say to him, they could do so now. Sa Xin went in to see Benjamin, who asked him to finish his studies for him and become a reporter in the future. Everyone went to Benjamin’s grave to pay their respects, and Song Ran was there too, placing a photo of him on the grave.

After attending the funeral, Song Ran went to the hospital to find Li Zan, but he was still in a coma. Having lost such a good friend, Song Ran felt very sad. She quietly lay in Li Zan's arms, and suddenly, Li Zan’s hand moved. Song Ran was very excited and watched as Li Zan opened his eyes. She couldn't help but shed tears. When Li Zan woke up, he asked to go home.

After returning to his country, Li Zan had been receiving treatment. A few months later, Dr. Liang, a psychologist, told Song Ran that Li Zan's condition was not optimistic. Dr. Liang even suggested sending Li Zan to a psychiatric hospital, showing just how bad his mental state was. Luo Zhan was shocked when he heard this, while Song Ran felt a little panicked, but she didn’t agree with sending Li Zan to a mental hospital.

She didn’t believe that Li Zan’s condition was that serious. Dr. Liang told Song Ran that Li Zan’s condition was the worst among all the patients he had treated, and if nothing changed, the outcome would either be murder or suicide. He warned that with Li Zan in such a dangerous state, even if he were sent to a psychiatric hospital, he would be locked up.

Hearing this, Song Ran disagreed even more strongly with sending Li Zan to a psychiatric hospital. She had made up her mind to stay with him for the rest of her life. Luo Zhan visited Li Zan’s home and apologized for waking him up, thinking it was his loud voice that disturbed Li Zan’s rest. Li Zan apologized to Luo Zhan, explaining that he couldn’t work in his current condition, which made things difficult for Luo Zhan at the company.

However, Luo Zhan didn’t blame him. To ease everyone's concerns, Li Zan jokingly talked with Luo Zhan. Hearing Li Zan still joke made Luo Zhan feel a little more optimistic, unaware that Li Zan was suppressing his true feelings. When Luo Zhan left, it was just Li Zan and Song Ran alone. Li Zan tried to reach out to touch Luo Zhan but was afraid he couldn’t control himself and might hurt Song Ran.

He held back and retracted his hand. To comfort Li Zan, Song Ran showed him the wound on her neck and held his hand with both of hers, feeling the warmth between them. Li Zan was deeply touched by Song Ran’s tenderness and suppressed his inner fear. He even kissed Song Ran. Song Ran was overjoyed, as they hadn’t kissed since they returned to their country, and she eagerly asked Li Zan to kiss her again.

They shared another passionate kiss. During dinner, Li Zan even asked Song Ran to draw the curtains, afraid of the sunlight outside. Song Ran guided Li Zan, and they reminisced about the sweet moments they once shared. Li Zan even recalled the first time he met Song Ran. After dinner, when Li Zan was helping Song Ran wash the dishes, he saw a knife in the sink, which triggered memories of his past in Dongguo, and his nerves immediately tensed.

Seeing Li Zan’s sudden emotional change, Song Ran realized that the knife had triggered his memories. She quickly hid the knife and hugged Li Zan, comforting him. Song Ran's actions touched Li Zan so deeply that he shed tears and hugged her back. Dr. Liang came to visit Li Zan and Song Ran at their home again. After learning about Li Zan's progress, Dr.

Liang told Song Ran that Li Zan’s condition had improved significantly and even brought some useful medication. That day, when Song Ran woke up, she found that Li Zan had made breakfast. She was deeply moved, as this showed that Li Zan’s condition had improved considerably. By the evening, Li Zan even wanted to go out for a walk.

Song Ran took Li Zan to see a psychologist at the hospital. However, when they were leaving, they accidentally bumped into someone, and the umbrella they were holding fell to the ground. The sound of the umbrella hitting the ground suddenly triggered Li Zan’s memories of being captured in Dongguo. He mistakenly thought that the person he collided with was a rebel and feared that they might hurt Song Ran.

In an attempt to protect her, Li Zan ended up striking the person. With the people around them gathering and pointing fingers at Li Zan, he became convinced that everyone who approached was a rebel. His mental state deteriorated rapidly, and he kept shouting uncontrollably. From Li Zan’s reaction, the crowd could see that he was mentally disturbed, so they stopped criticizing him and advised the mother and daughter who had been struck not to hold it against Li Zan.

Song Ran took Li Zan back home. Once they were home, Li Zan sat quietly on the sofa, feeling extremely guilty about his sudden mental breakdown. He believed he had caused Song Ran a lot of trouble and apologized profusely. Song Ran didn’t mind, but seeing how much worse Li Zan’s condition had become, she felt deeply saddened. Li Zan admitted that his situation hadn’t improved at all.

Everything he had shown was just an act to avoid worrying Song Ran. His episode that day had left her very upset. Li Zan begged Song Ran to send him to a psychiatric hospital, believing it would be better for everyone. His words made Song Ran feel even more guilty, as she blamed herself for not taking better care of him, which had led to this situation.

However, she was adamant that she would not send Li Zan to a psychiatric hospital. She firmly encouraged him, telling him she would always be by his side. With Song Ran’s determination, Li Zan agreed not to go to the hospital and promised to face the difficulties together with her. Although Li Zan agreed to face it together with Song Ran, he knew his condition was very bad and was afraid he would drag Song Ran down.

That night, while Song Ran was asleep, he secretly left. The next morning, when Song Ran woke up and couldn’t find him, she searched everywhere but couldn’t find him. Back home, Song Ran began looking through Li Zan’s belongings to find clues, and she came across his journal. In it, Li Zan had recorded all their beautiful moments together.

Song Ran’s mother also found her and, upon seeing her mother, Song Ran couldn’t hold back any longer and cried in her arms. Her mother advised Song Ran to go find Li Zan’s father, and although Song Ran had already called Li Zan’s father before with no news of Li Zan, her mother’s words gave her the strength to go to Li Zan’s family home. At Li Zan’s insistence, his father agreed to send him to a rehabilitation center.

Song Ran followed Li Zan’s father to the rehabilitation center, where she found Li Zan. She read aloud from Li Zan’s journal, recalling their precious memories together, and returned the journal to him, insisting that she would continue to be with him. Li Zan was moved, wanting to touch Song Ran, but he feared losing control and hurting her. In the end, he held back. Li Zan and Song Ran decided to get married, and both their families were present.

Although it wasn’t a grand, extravagant wedding, Song Ran still felt very happy and received her parents' approval and blessings. On their wedding night, they decided to elope. Song Ran knew that Li Zan’s condition would never improve, and she didn’t want to burden anyone else. So, she chose to live alone and no longer cause harm to the people around her. She also decided to write a book about her experiences and have it published.

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