Episode Summary
Shi Fake and Lu Chi navigate their budding romance while dealing with Yan Qiyue's mistaken belief that Lu Chi is the artist Mr. Linyuan. Lu Chi confesses his love for Shi Fake, and they try to dissuade Yan Qiyue. Meanwhile, He Kexian proposes to Shi Fake, but she rejects him. The episode ends with the announcement of a mysterious art exhibition by Mr. Linyuan, where Yan Qiyue once again encounters the Emperor.
Spoiler Alert
The episode kicks off with Shi Fake deciding to act on her brother's behalf and exchange betrothal cards, known as Gengtie, with Li Pan'er. Her family fully supports the decision. Shi Fake and Yan Qiyue head to the Xi Bao Pavilion, where they successfully exchange the Gengtie with a delighted Li Pan'er.
Just as they finish, they run into Lu Chi, who invites them to admire some paintings by the famous artist, Mr. Linyuan. Yan Qiyue, noticing that Lu Chi's handwriting is strikingly similar to the artist's, jumps to the conclusion that he is the mysterious Mr. Linyuan. In a bold move, she reveals her identity as a woman to him on the spot. Lu Chi denies being the artist, but Yan Qiyue remains unconvinced. A flustered Shi Fake quickly pulls Yan Qiyue away.
Back home, Shi Fake feels that Yan Qiyue is being rash, basing her strong conviction on a single piece of calligraphy. Her frustration is compounded by the fact that she herself has feelings for Lu Chi and can't bear the thought of him with Yan Qiyue. When Yan Qiyue, ecstatic about finally finding her idol, asks for Shi Fake's help, Shi Fake becomes even more dejected. Her brothers, Shi Qianqian and Shi Zhongshan, notice her low spirits. Based on snippets of information, they mistakenly believe one of Shi Fake's "sisters" has a crush on Lu Chi and pass this incorrect news on to him.
Later that evening, Lu Chi finds a troubled Shi Fake and confesses his true feelings. He assures her that she is the only one he will ever love.
Determined to clear up the misunderstanding with Yan Qiyue, Shi Fake and Lu Chi present her with numerous forgeries of Mr. Linyuan's work. When Yan Qiyue can't tell them apart from the real thing, Shi Fake gently advises her not to build an infatuation based on a single painting, but to consider the reality of the person.
Meanwhile, other plots are unfolding. The Marquis of Wu'an continues to scheme for a way to marry Princess Gaoyou. Lu Chi learns that someone is buying Mr. Linyuan's paintings at a high price, but he pays it little mind, assuming it's Yan Qiyue. However, he is intrigued by the news that the Emperor has been frequently leaving the palace in secret. As it happens, Yan Qiyue has another delightful meeting with the Emperor.
The romantic complications continue as Shi Zhongshan visits He Ketian. She is happy to see him but becomes upset upon learning he supports Shi Fake's relationship with Lu Chi, as she secretly hopes her own brother, He Kexian, will win Shi Fake's heart. She ends up kicking Shi Zhongshan out. He Kexian, however, believes Shi Zhongshan is a dependable man and encourages his sister not to let her own happiness be delayed by his. Spurred on by He Ketian, He Kexian goes to Shi Fake's home and formally proposes marriage to her parents, who are thrilled by the prospect.
Just as Shi Fake learns of the proposal and is about to rush out to explain, she receives tickets to a play, "A Dream of Jiangning." Deciding it would be too embarrassing to reject He Kexian so bluntly, she chooses to take Yan Qiyue to the play first, hoping the outing will provide a good opportunity to sort things out with her friend. After the show, Shi Fake goes to He's Bakery, finds He Kexian, and gently but firmly turns down his proposal, making her feelings clear.
After parting with Shi Fake, Yan Qiyue is harassed by a group of thugs but is unexpectedly rescued by the Emperor. The episode culminates with a new development: news spreads like wildfire that Mr. Linyuan is holding an art exhibition in the capital. Lu Chi is baffled by the announcement. Yan Qiyue, however, is ecstatic and rushes to tell Shi Fake. At the exhibition, an excited Yan Qiyue arrives and is surprised to see the Emperor, whom she greets with enthusiasm.
