shadowdreamer

I understand your positioning.

However, from my view the reason why she is willing to become Chen's bridesmaid is first they are/were "friends" in college and she has no good comeback to deflect Chen's request. She also wants to quickly pack her away to Zhao, therefore out of Shangqi and her relationship. I don't think it has much to do with Shangi at all. Like I said in other post, Shangqi is like a tool for these two girls. She did not stand up and told Chen to back off, that is my issue with her. Rather each encounter is a polite but glooming face, which is too easy for Chen to played off of. If you are ready to fight then fight dirty as she personally knows how Chen is like back in college.

Zhao is being investigated. I'm sure there will be result in the later episodes.

"His poor judgement is not her problem" - who contribute to the poor judgement? She was the mediator... How does she know if she tells him he will rebuke her? Because she was always insecure and never has the guts to make any move within those eight years. However, those eight years, who keeps apologizing for it but who keeps bringing it up to guilt trip the other party?

She was insecure (has always been so) because she met her psychological horror, Chen. Chen knows how to poke her weakness. Whereas she has no defense against Chen, thus transferring those anger to Shangqi. He was going to tell her about Chen but she made the surprise trip, so is it his fault for not telling her? Is he cheating? A person doesn't need to feel guilty if they have no intention of cheating. What kind of person needs constant assurance needs a play by play account of their partner? Remember when she almost broke into his phone? That is the PTSDing Chen put her through, NOT Shangqi. If the woman that Shangqi worked with is not Chen would she react the same? So, it is just Chen that she reacts that way too. Throughout all their relationship she is always wanting to complete a set of lists as soon as possible as if the relationship is only temprorary. When they first moved in together Shangqi asked her why she brought so few clothes, and what is her response?

No, he does not bring his FEELINGS to work. He is professional all the way, the way how a businessman would capitalized on situations. He is clever to find a way to workaround to bring win-win to his cooperation with her, a way to keep afloat her team, a chance with her (of course) and his hotel. That is the difference. She cannot distinguish work related from personal emotion. She can do the job well and scold him outside, that would be professional. However, what we saw this week is that even if it is not his doing she was not professional enough to complete her work.

She failed her interview, easy and simple. She was struck numb by the short clip about graduation at the last interview... Also because she was not strong enough to face everyone after her supposedly "failed" confession. Who humiliated her? Him? Or her own fault for not being careful and let others open it on accident. Once again, don't blame this on him. Therefore what we have here is a case of her own capitulation to the event to have to go to another place to start "fresh". Not to mention, she left her loving parents behind to pursue her going nowhere career until Shangqi intervene.

He reassurance her is because he is a liar? How is he a liar? What did he do that was earth shattering for her to be so cold face, to roll her eyes at him? Did he cheat? Did he kill her family? Oh, wait, it is just delaying telling her about Chen (her archenemy) and withheld his father's death? And do what he can to protect her from Zhao's grip? "The noble idiocy trope" works with all the conditions presented, but it is her the layout of her character that doesn't work. There's the contrast.

Her trust was always fragile, or I can say now it is nonexistence as she told him. What about his trust in her. It is not comparable at all. He cannot always be on the lookout for pitfalls because she is not strong enough. So, he can be a tool for her venting. He should grovel until he's blue in the face because FL feels entitled to her hurt feelings.... Her reasoning is unfounded. She is hurt but he is also hurt. I'm repeating myself here. He is willing to recognize his "short comings" and apologize. What kind of happy ending, which I assume this drama will have, can we expect from this relationship. A relationship needs two people to work, it seems right now one person is going the mile and the other is standing still.

I ascertain her based on what is presented on screen. She has trust issues from the very beginning. First it was her secret love, she withheld it for eight years without a word and she feels incomparable to Chen. Chen continues to play a pivotal role in her psyche even after Chen said she's given up on Shangqi. She doesn't trust him because she thinks he doesn't like her like he with Chen. It is all in her head. With all that he is willing to give up to be with her, if it is not enough, I'm not sure what else can besides phycological counseling her. Frankly at this point, I'd rather he not chase her, him groveling like this with her attitude is annoying as heck. However, it seems the groveling will continue nonetheless because the screenwriters said so. From the "breakup" to now she has the same face that I as a viewer just cannot sympathize with.

Yes, looks like we are watching different drama. We are taking different side. I can relate more to ML than FL.

What about 2nd question?

Edited: I want to know because the audience unconsciously or even consciously take the position of a lead/character and view things from that character's angle. The blind spot can be combed out if we analyze it equally across the board.

I have two rhetorical questions.
1. Given all the conditions of ML here, how would you re-evaluate him? If he is not the lead but second or other.
2. Same for FL, if she is not female lead but a second lead or other, would you still feel the same?

Could be that he's changed or something. Although she could have wanted to say something else.

He has a thing for Chen but why is she the one willing to run around for Fei'er to deceive him? If she values their friendship she should at least spoke up or clue him on it. What we get instead is that he thought Chen had some feelings for him through HER mediation. This is just a bit messed up if you ask me. Not to mention, she keeps bringing up the eight years she'd liked him. ???? What? She is doing cognitive dissonance. You keep hearing she loves him she loves him but what I saw was silent complicit on her part to allowing Chen to deceive Shangqi. Thus giving her a moral high ground for feeling abandoned by them when they went abroad, at the same cutting off all communication before he even has a say. When combining all these together, Shangqi is a tool between the two girls.

Yes, she has her right to be angry because she feels hurt but she also hurts him. He is also an injury party. He is willing to apologize to explain but what does she do. She brought personal issues to work (very unprofessional) and acting like the world owes her. Then turns around and complains to Li. This is not a sign of a person that wants to end their relationship. Rather, a person that is bitter and want to lash out. It's good that she finally spoke out. That way they know where they stand. Seriously, at this point I'd rather they not end up together. They have too many differences for me to feel they will last after getting a happily ever after. Unless there is a major reversal and she suddenly got enlightened.

Her being a stranger is when they encountered Chen in Hupu, after they have lived together in Wusu...
She has never trusted him. Name one where she actually trust him?
Not running around? Why was she in Wusu in the first place? When she made her ultimatum to him in Hupu before returing to Wusu?
Why did she give up her interview in college?
He constantly reassurances her from before they get together to when they were together, to when they were in Hupu....
Seriously, I would get tired too if I have to be mindful of a person's fragile state of mind all the time without any notice.

Um, I am seriously asking, we are watching the same drama right?...

I'll repost what I wrote above as it answers your questions:

There wasn't many scenes of them in college but what is shown is that she unwillingly but goes along with Chen in stringing Shangqi's feeling? Now you tell me why would she be hidden culprit of leading Shangqi to Chen in the first place? If she loves him enough she would not waited eight years silently loving him. Since Chen told her outright how she feels about Shangqi, why is she still helping Chen? That I do not understand. Again, the confession was no fault of Shangqi, he didn't see the video. Why is this still on him? So, basically he wasn't aware of He's feelings to him at the same time nor saw the confession video. The next morning when Shanqi tried to contact FL he was already blocked by her. Then who's to blame for not communicating this time? Both parties, it cannot be just him alone. That is why he wants an apology from her because he was blocked without knowing the reason.

It seems we have totally opposite view on trust from the leads.

The second breakup both have trust issues. He has more to lose than her. He has always been independent and that is an issue I see he's worked on as he's willing to admit mistakes. FL is PTSDing her first failed confession and her lack of trust in him. He said it in the recent updates, she acts differently towards him every time she comes into contact with Chen. Thus, it is not him she has issues with rather her psychological reaction to Chen on top of her insecurity. She does not need to abandon her life; she's already done that when she ran away to Wusu. Her threatening to run away again in episode 32 is why she cannot get a grip on the current dilemma, that they had a short-lived relationship before Chen came along. Now, why is that? He constantly reassurances her at any opportunity but she was not trusting him enough to tell him why she was behaving like a stranger to him when they already moved in together. Everyone is moving forward, even Chen is moving forward, but she is still stuck in college. Well, except for Zhao; his life was overshadowed by his childhood. I'm hoping she will grow but she is not.

There wasn't many scenes of them in college but what is shown is that she unwillingly but goes along with Chen in stringing Shangqi's feeling? Now you tell me why would she be hidden culprit of leading Shangqi to Chen in the first place? If she loves him enough she would not waited eight years silently loving him. Since Chen told her outright how she feels about Shangqi, why is she still helping Chen? That I do not understand. Again, the confession was no fault of Shangqi, he didn't see the video. Why is this still on him? So, basically he wasn't aware of He's feelings to him at the same time nor saw the confession video. The next morning when Shanqi tried to contact FL he was already blocked by her. Then who's to blame for not communicating this time? Both parties, it cannot be just him alone. That is why he wants an apology from her because he was blocked without knowing the reason.

It seems we have totally opposite view on trust from the leads.

The second breakup both have trust issues. He has more to lose than her. He has always been independent and that is an issue I see he's worked on as he's willing to admit mistakes. FL is PTSDing her first failed confession and her lack of trust in him. He said it in the recent updates, she acts differently towards him every time she comes into contact with Chen. Thus, it is not him she has issues with rather her psychological reaction to Chen on top of her insecurity. She does not need to abandon her life; she's already done that when she ran away to Wusu. Her threatening to run away again in episode 32 is why she cannot get a grip on the current dilemma, that they had a short-lived relationship before Chen came along. Now, why is that? He constantly reassurances her at any opportunity but she was not trusting him enough to tell him why she was behaving like a stranger to him when they already moved in together. Everyone is moving forward, even Chen is moving forward, but she is still stuck in college. Well, except for Zhao; his life was overshadowed by his childhood. I'm hoping she will grow but she is not.

The climax of the drama is the showdown between Shangqi and Zhao. I heard it took a whole day to film. All the characters did an amazing job and have great chemistry. The tension between Shangqi and Zhao is unbelievably electrifying, it is immensely satisfying to watch. Shangqi doesn’t pull any punches and knows how to crush Zhao with all the glaring evidence he patiently gathered against him. And a seemly evil villain is a scaredy-cat? “You’re scared of death, but have you lived before?” It really defines Zhao’s life. He’s spent all his energy on defeating the Xiao family, especially Xiao Shangqi, but at the end he never really gets to enjoy any of it. Maybe a sense of accomplishment once when he thought he’s destroyed Shangqi. Zhao is such a twisted but sad/tragic character. And finally, blood is thicker than water, the Xiao brothers are a dream team.

These two episodes really show two sides of Xiao Shangqi. A very competent and shrewd businessman and an inexperience lovesick young man. LOL, when Shangqi was pretending to be sick. So adorable. Can I be the one you’re chasing, Mr. Xiao Shangqi? I promise I will never say no. 😊

I disagree about the "noble idiocy trope". I found it hilarious how FL is in love with Shangqi for eight years, but she never fought for him. Not once. Instead, after each rejection she runs away. With this kind of attitude, I’m surprised she can keep a stable friendship with her two housemate friends. Like she’s willing to understand them and fight for them but when it comes to Shangqi it is either my way or the highway. There doesn’t seem to be a middle ground. He is willing to admit when he’s wrong, but she doesn’t seem to register anything at all. At this point, even with a happy ending, I have doubts whether she will have the confidence to fight for what she wants or just give up the first argument or disagreement they have. Sounds like a recipe for disaster.

I'm also the opposite of you in that I skipped Sui and Li's parts and watch with relish on Chen and Lin's. A redeeming story is always a fresh take on a hated character. Looking at the overall picture, Sui and Li's scenes contribute little to nothing to the story rather it feels like a filler to extend the drama and setup for FL character. Otherwise, I feel there's no other side story for FL besides the workplace arc.

I usually don't read reviews until the show is finished. Any reviews beforehand are, in my opinion, heavily influenced by biases one way or another. Expectations set by a review may change midway or reverse in the ending.

Same here. The few dramas I dropped do not have my ratings or reviews. I leave with an open mind that not every drama is to my liking.

No one mentions the business aspect of the drama but I have to say it is very well done. The Xiao brothers did plan together secretly since the beginning. I feel bad for Xiao Xian, he'd suffered a lot these years. His endurance at the hands of Zhao is marveling. Xiao Shangqi is really is Zhao's obsession. Despite multiple setbacks he can outsmart him, it is no wonder Zhao does everything possible to defeat Shangqi. I'm a bit excited about the next two episodes. I wonder how Shangqi will overturn the situation after Zhao discovered the Xiao brother's team and bankrupt Yunlan. Your hero or heroine is as powerful as the villain is. It's been a while since I watch such smart play. Unfortunately, this is a romance drama so we don't get to see the full business spectrum play out.

I have to agree with some that there is just something about female lead actress that just doesn't work for me. I had a whole paragraph written but decided to delete it. As what I wanted to say will not sound nice so...anyway.

The pairing of Chen and Lin setup is actually good. Chen becomes humble and a much more likeable person than before. She's definitely finding herself after she left Zhao. Lin is a sweetheart, it's no wonder he can penetrate Chen's protective shell.

I was right in that Wusu is a sanctuary. ^_^

Lol, thank you. 😊

I agree. However, I'm curious as Lin is a quiet, smart and warm dad/person while Chen is a smart opportunist. Maybe that could work for Chen because she needs someone who is grounded and devoted to her and she can finally let down her guard of always scheming. Let's wait and see how the screenwriters fix these two up.

I like this character a lot. She really outshine FL. She's full of thorns, clever, devious even and has great instinct for survival and is not ashamed to go after what she wants. I think a drama staring with such anti-heroine characteristics like her as the lead would be extraordinary.

I don't want to change anyone's opinion but want to put in my 2 cents. The drama has its flaw, but each character is well written and played out, it is a matter of paying attention to details and having empathy to those individuals. We as audience are given access to see their inner thoughts with each revelation. Even if we disagree with their choices, we can understand their decisions.

The theme is an old trope as it is based on a novel but the way the storyline is rewritten and revamped is a refreshing take. The best part about this drama is the struggle of young people. The main characters are in their mid-20s. Young people in their 20s are still growing and experiencing life, good and/or bad. They are newly employed in the workplace but not yet stable in their career. They are young but ambitious. Of course, love is also a big part of the equation but many in this age group are either struggling or trying really hard to maintain their career aspiration. Some will be confused and will want to give up and only a few can achieve what they set out to do. This drama reflects this part well.

Anyway, love isn't just romantic love. Family, friendship, ideal (career, aspirations), and even love for your country is love. I interpret it as a sense of belonging, a haven, a cherish place or things. To fight for your family is not consider, at least in my definition, a separate entity from a romance drama. Rather it is the glue that bound romantic notions. Respecting a career development and achievement is not saying that they do not love each other more than their career. If there is only romantic love, how will they live and eat? I see a powerhouse couple as excellent in both love and career.

Well, think I'll end it here for now. Sorry, once I am passionate about something I tend to go on a tangent.

From the look of it this week's episodes will be exciting. I have a few anticipations and hope most will be answered.
Is it true the Xiao brothers work secretly to bring down Zhao? And how will they do that? Will Xiao Shangqi and He Xiaoran reconcile? What other obstacles will be in their way. Then, there's also the 2nd leads (FL's friends) and Chen's story with vice president Lin and his son. Can't wait!

I understand. This is my first time watching a drama by FL actress. I can say I will be hard pressed to watch any of her other projects. She is quite out of her depth with this role.

Err, since you've watched to the latest update then I'm baffled by what you are saying. There's enough evidence sprinkle here and there throughout the 26 episodes to justify each character setup and as to why they act or react the way they do. I'm honestly deduced that this drama doesn't sound like it fits your taste. I think dropping the series is a better option. Cheers.

I have noticed. And personally, I never look at rating to determine what to watch. I thought it was a bit dramatic how a show can be rated and who rated it before it ends. I mean, I can understand those dropping the series but according to what you said some rated due to actor biases and not the actual drama itself is a bit contrived.
Yes, it looks like the drama will wrap things up rather nicely. As far as the trailers showed us. Which I don't doubt because so far the pacing and storyline is superb.