Episode Summary
In this episode, Tang Bei's guilt over betraying Su Baoyan deepens, hinting at romantic feelings, while he also begins targeting Lu Li. Qin Yuebai faces sabotage from Tang Bei, who spreads rumors to ruin her art exhibition's reputation. Lu Li investigates why an artist named Milo withdrew and discovers his battle with depression, a secret Qin Yuebai decides to protect. This act of kindness strengthens the bond between Lu Li and Qin Yuebai, leading to a moment of clear romantic tension. The power dynamics shift as Qin Yuebai gains favor in the Su household, causing Su Baoyan's stepmother to plot against her.
Spoiler Alert
Double Fugue: Episode 11 Spoilers
Racked with guilt over his betrayal of Su Baoyan, Tang Bei finds himself in a state of remorse. Su Baoyan's stepmother, having witnessed Su Shilun's cold-hearted treatment of his own daughter, is terrified. She recognizes that anyone who threatens Su Shilun's interests will face his wrath and feels relieved that Su Baoyan didn't expose Tang Bei, fearing Su Shilun would have "boiled them both." Worried that Su Baoyan is scared and alone in her room, Tang Bei asks the stepmother to bring Su Baoyan her pet dog for comfort. This act of kindness surprises the stepmother, leading her to suspect that Tang Bei's guilt may be blossoming into genuine feelings for Su Baoyan.
Meanwhile, Qin Yuebai is working tirelessly to prove her value to Su Shilun, especially since Su Baoyan is now confined at home. Tang Bei, however, is actively plotting against her. Upon learning about Qin Yuebai's upcoming art exhibition, he sneaks into the gallery late at night to scout the featured artworks and artists. Discovering that a painter named Milo has withdrawn his work, Tang Bei sees an opportunity. He hires an "internet water army" (paid online trolls) to spread rumors that Qin Yuebai's gallery is merely a tool for social climbing to curry favor with the powerful, completely disregarding the artistic desires of genuine fans.
Lu Li senses there must be a deeper reason for Milo's abrupt withdrawal from the exhibition. Using his connections, he finds the artist painting alone on a bridge, looking deeply troubled. The two quickly bond over their shared passion for art, and Milo confides in Lu Li that he is suffering from depression. He explains that while he once wanted to share his talent with the world, he is now overwhelmed by a severe sense of failure and wishes to retreat from the public eye. Instead of exposing this to protect her gallery's interests, Qin Yuebai chooses to protect Milo by keeping his condition a secret.
This act of integrity deeply impresses Lu Li, who admires Qin Yuebai's character. He reflects that most business people would shift the blame to maximize profits, but she chooses to take on the burden herself. Later, while they are working overtime together, Lu Li finds himself captivated by her. He watches as she works, completely focused on her design, a stray lock of hair falling across her cheek. He notices how beautiful her lips are and feels a powerful sense of attraction.
With Su Baoyan having fallen from her father's grace, Qin Yuebai becomes a more frequent and welcome presence in the Su household, even winning over the family's nanny. This shift in power alarms Su Baoyan's stepmother, who fears Su Shilun will now favor Qin Yuebai and begins to plot ways to undermine her. Tang Bei, spurred by Su Shilun's cruel treatment of Su Baoyan, also expands his focus, now targeting Lu Li. Hearing that Lu Li has a capable assistant, Tang Bei sets a plan in motion to try and win them over to his side.
