Summary
Highlights
He Dong, known as the village's good-for-nothing, finds himself entangled with Zhu Qingya after she is found sleeping in his bed. Despite the Zhu family's anger, He Dong's mother insists on marriage to preserve Qingya's reputation. Years later, He Dong, now a successful businessman, laments the past, wishing he could have protected Qingya and their unborn child, who died tragically. He then experiences a rebirth, vowing to change his fate and ensure a better life for his family.
In his new life, He Dong is given half a month to marry Qingya. He immediately starts working to earn money, selling mushrooms and leveraging his knowledge from his past life. He buys new shoes for Zhu Changrong, Qingya's brother, and delivers meat to his own family, surprising everyone with his changed demeanor. His family and Qingya's family are initially skeptical but slowly begin to see his transformation.
He Dong continues to sell mushrooms and discovers the value of wild game. He involves the village children in mushroom picking, paying them fairly and emphasizing the importance of education. He also starts renovating his house, signaling his commitment to a stable future with Qingya. His efforts gain the trust of Zhu Changrong, who begins to actively help him.
He Dong aims to buy 'three revolutions and one ring' (a bicycle, a sewing machine, a watch, and a radio) as a dowry for Qingya, a significant display of wealth. Despite initial doubt from his family and the villagers, he successfully acquires the items. His grand gesture at the Zhu family's doorstep surprises everyone and silences the gossips, proving his newfound success and commitment.
He Dong extends an olive branch to his estranged brother, He Gui, asking his sister-in-law to manage his mushroom business accounts. He also invites his family for dinner, showcasing his improved cooking skills and his desire to reconcile. He plans to expand his business to include pig farming and wild game, further demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit.
He Dong's entrepreneurial success inspires the entire village. He convinces more villagers to participate in mushroom and wild game collection, promising fair prices. He even inspires local children to pursue education, recognizing its long-term benefits over instant earnings. His vision begins to transform the village economy, earning him respect and admiration.
He Dong's wedding day arrives. Despite some family members trying to dissuade him, he remains committed to Qingya. The wedding is a joyous occasion, marking a new chapter for He Dong and Qingya. He continues to expand his business and earns the respect of local officials, who see him as a model for rural development.
He Dong's dedication to Qingya is evident in his desire to support her dreams of higher education. He encourages her to study and even prepares a large meal for a visiting official, using the opportunity to subtly advance his plans for opening a restaurant. He navigates complex family dynamics and public scrutiny, always prioritizing his new wife and his vision for the village.
He Dong confronts those who spread rumors about Qingya, fiercely defending her. He takes her on a shopping trip, buying her a beautiful dress and emphasizing her happiness. He discovers her passion for learning and encourages her to pursue higher education, promising his unwavering support. Their relationship deepens as they share dreams and face challenges together.
He Dong learns of Qingya's pregnancy and is overjoyed. He reaffirms his commitment to her and their child, promising to balance his business ambitions with his family responsibilities. He supports Qingya's decision to continue her studies, demonstrating his profound love and respect for her aspirations, even if it means postponing certain aspects of their shared future.