The Dragon Boat Race began, with He Jiashu and He Jiahao sitting in the front row. The riverbank was packed with cheering supporters, and everything was ready. As the signal was given, both teams began paddling with all their might. He Jiahao’s team initially pulled ahead, but their opponents quickly caught up. Chen Ruonan, acting as the drummer, panicked when she noticed the other team gaining ground. He Jiashu calmly instructed her to follow the paddling rhythm and strike the drum accordingly. With the drumbeat setting the pace, the team’s strokes became synchronized.
On the shore, He Hongjuan and Lihua cheered loudly for He Jiashu and He Jiahao. As they were enthusiastically shouting, He Hongguang arrived. Lihua asked him why he came when he initially said he wouldn’t, but he ignored her and joined in cheering. Following Chen Ruonan’s steady drumbeat, He Jiahao’s team managed to outpace their rivals. The Xiqiao Village Dragon Boat team emerged victorious.
The village chief hosted a celebratory meal at the ancestral hall, expressing his joy at the village’s victory and encouraging everyone to eat to their heart’s content, with the village covering the expenses. The group enjoyed the lively atmosphere, laughing and chatting over food and drinks. One man approached He Jiashu, saying he had been waiting for an opportunity to drink with him since his return. He Jiashu raised his glass, and He Jiahao joined in but was told by He Jiashu to stick to juice because of his age.
Chen Long’an came over, claiming that as the head coach, he should be the one to drink with He Jiashu. After drinking, he suggested that He Jiashu step outside for some fresh air.
As soon as He Jiashu stepped outside, He Hongguang followed. Jiashu was about to light a cigarette but put it away when he saw his father approach. He Hongguang handed Jiashu a photo album, saying it had been left by his grandfather. As Jiashu flipped through the album, he found pictures of himself from childhood to adulthood, each accompanied by handwritten notes.
In the final entry, Jiashu’s grandfather admitted that he had been unwell since Jiashu’s early years and regretted not being a good father or husband. Reflecting on his life, he felt he had accomplished little but was proud to have such an outstanding grandson. The album declared Jiashu as his greatest pride. Overcome with emotion, Jiashu wept as he finished reading.
Meanwhile, Lin Junrong visited Aunt Zhang’s barbershop again. Aunt Zhang immediately called him out, saying she knew he was a fraud and told him to leave. A customer arrived for skincare treatment, and Lin Junrong started flirting, complimenting her skin and inviting her to a late-night snack. The woman, Xiaoxia, introduced herself and accepted his invitation.
Back at the ancestral hall, He Hongguang stood in front of the crowd, announcing that a month ago, his father’s illness had inspired him to renovate the ancestral hall. He invited everyone to witness its completion and join in the celebration. He then unveiled the family tree behind the hall, revealing He Jiashu’s name listed as the eldest son of the He family.
The announcement filled the room with joy. He Jiahao was the happiest, while Jiashu was visibly moved. Hongguang invited Jiashu to offer incense to their ancestors, asking for their blessings to ensure peace and prosperity for future generations.
Later, Jiahao asked Jiashu about his plans. Jiashu replied that once their grandfather’s health improved, he intended to return to school. Jiahao asked if he could visit him, and Jiashu gave him the address, encouraging him to come whenever he wanted. Jiashu told Jiahao to call him if he ever needed anything, and the two brothers laughed and joked together.
Half a year later, the family gathered for a meal, waiting for Jiashu’s arrival. He Hongjuan, hungry, suggested they start eating, but Jiahao insisted they wait. Moments later, Jiashu arrived, pushing their grandfather in a wheelchair. The family, reunited and harmonious, shared a joyful meal together.
