Episode Summary
In this episode, the friends' plan to set off fireworks is canceled by the arrival of Du Shang's abusive father. Jiang Qiaoxi wins the Math Olympiad to fulfill his mother's wish but sparks a major family crisis when he declares his intention to stop pursuing her dreams for him. The conflict escalates to a dangerous point, requiring Ying Tao's intervention. The episode culminates in an emotional moment as Jiang Qiaoxi discovers Ying Tao's true feelings for him through her diary.
Spoiler Alert
"Our Generation" Episode 12: A Champion's Cry
The episode begins on a positive note as Du Shang's mother, Shuangyan, merges her fried skewer stall with the convenience store owned by Qin Yeyun's father, Old Qin. When Shuangyan offers to pay rent, Old Qin kindly refuses. Du Shang and Qin Yeyun help tidy up the newly combined space. Although Qin Yeyun is fond of Shuangyan's cooking, the friends can't share a meal together as they have plans to set off fireworks by the sea.
Their plans are abruptly halted by the arrival of Du Shang's father, a man with a history of violence. Having been abusive towards Du Shang since childhood, his presence immediately raises concern. Worried for their friend's safety, the group decides to cancel the fireworks and go to Du Shang's home to check on the situation. As they approach, they hear the sound of a breaking bowl. They rush to knock, but it's Du Shang's father who answers the door. Inside, they find Du Shang cooking with him, and with things appearing calm, the friends decide to leave. Jiang Qiaoxi suggests Du Shang spend quality time with his family, reassuring him that there will be other opportunities for fireworks and mentioning he has gifts for everyone.
The next day, as the friends cycle to school, Jiang Qiaoxi presents them with hand-knitted red scarves. Ying Tao's is extra special, adorned with a small white rabbit. Despite the scarves being a little unattractive, everyone wears them proudly because of the effort he put in. Later at school, the mood sours when Jiang Qiaoxi's mother, Aunt Liang, storms into the cafeteria. She is furious that he skipped the Math Olympiad's opening ceremony. Before being led away by his mother, Jiang Qiaoxi cryptically tells Ying Tao that "it's almost over," leaving her confused. In a show of solidarity, she and the others stand up, wearing their scarves, and watch him go.
At the Math Olympiad, Jiang Qiaoxi is running a high fever but refuses to take medication, fearing it will affect his performance. Despite nearly falling asleep during the exam, his brilliance shines through, and he achieves a perfect score, winning the championship. This victory secures him a guaranteed admission to a top university like Tsinghua or Peking.
Returning home, Jiang Qiaoxi feels a sense of relief, having fulfilled his mother's dream. He gathers all his study materials and tells his mother she can destroy them, declaring that now that he has won, he will finally live as himself. Enraged by his words, his mother slaps him just as his father, Manager Jiang, walks in. A massive argument erupts, drawing the attention of neighbors who criticize Jiang Qiaoxi for wanting to give up such a prestigious opportunity. Manager Jiang calls Ying Tao's father for help.
Ying Tao's family rushes to the scene. Peeking through a crack in the door, Ying Tao sees Jiang Qiaoxi about to harm himself with a fruit knife and intervenes just in time. She brings a distraught Jiang Qiaoxi back to her home for hot pot. Alone in her bedroom, he stumbles upon her diary and discovers that she has been thinking of him every day since he left Qunshan. When Ying Tao enters and sees his tear-streaked face, she simply hands him a tissue, showing no anger that he read her private thoughts.