emberzmars

Wang Yi Lei is the most handsome Lou Yanjing out of the 4 versions I have watched

There are multiple versions to this one story of a dumped ballerina finding love with her high schoolmate. This is the fourth version that I have watched (MLs are Wang Xin, Qiao Jia Le and Wang Nan). Even though they share the same plot, there are differences in this version though I think 'He Falls for Her' has many similar scenes with 'Tempting Heart'. Thank you to MDL user Taz-mania for notifying me about working link.

What I liked:
1. Wang Yi Lei - His acting was good in this drama but gosh his looks. He is the most handsome Lou Yanjing out of the four version I have watched. Not a fan of that earring on him but overall his styling for this drama was damn fine. My favourite outfit is the leather jacket. Damn he looked like a very handsome bad boy.
2. Supporting characters - I liked that this drama featured ML's parents early on though I wish they would make more appearances in the third act. FL's biological family, dating show contestants (except that evil pair) and crew were likeable.
3. Romance - Their romance was mostly sweet with a few good kisses. I liked that ML took the decision that protected FL's wellbeing. However I felt their romance story was overshadowed by the conflict with Fu Yanze and FL's adopted sister.
4. Piggyback - I liked that FL was cunning in order to win this challenge. This is different from FL in 'Tempting Hearts', played by Lei Xiao Mi.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - There was so much time given to the antagonists FL's adopted mother & sister & Fu Yanze.
2. Live streaming - I felt the live streaming of DNA test results was unnecessary even if it was unintentional. It was a profound news that I felt should be revealed in private.

Favourite scene
The blindfolded scene

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F5 in an aquatic world...what a delight!

I knew about this drama from Shen Hao Nan's fan youtube account and wow, I was excited for this series. I have watched the works of all 5 actors (Shen Hao Nan, He Jian Qi, Wang Yi Ran, Duan Mei Yang & Chen Gang) + Zuo Yi at least once. Glad I found this drama on Youtube.

What I liked:
1. The mermen - Shen Hao Nan, He Jian Qi, Wang Yi Ran, Duan Mei Yang & Chen Gang were hot as mermen and normal human being. I like that all 5 mermen have different personality and temperament. If I have to choose 1 outstanding merman, my pick is Qiao Jing Ze. He Jian Qi was outstanding as a rebel. I also enjoyed the plot of brotherhood between the 4 characters. I think if the writer could do a spin off focusing on just the brotherhood.
2. Brother-sister dynamic - There were many arcs in this drama and the one I enjoyed the most is Chu Yu Sheng and Chu Yun Ling. Despite the short screentime, this arc was more compelling because of the conflicted emotions felt by Chu Yu Sheng. Great chemistry between Chen Gang and Zuo Yi.
3. Shen Hao Nan-He Jian Qi - When watching the drama, I really like watching these two actors in the same frame together. Their characters were yin and yang. It's even more amusing watching the behind the scenes. He Jian Qi seemed like the prankster in the group. Dude has great bromance with Shen Hao Nan and now I want to watch them in a new drama together!

What I disliked:
1. Romance - Despite having 4 suitors, I find the romance arcs underwhelming perhaps due to chemistry and uneven screen time for 4 potential couples. I think Zuo Yi had the best romantic scene with Wang Yi Ran despite another suitor having the strongest feels.
2. FL characterisation - I understand that this drama is coming-of-age story of Chu Yun Ling. However I felt this arc was overshadowed by the romance arcs and rivalry arc. FL was too cute and bland for my liking. I think Zuo Yi was miscast to play a 22 year old woman navigating life on land and underwater. If there was a remake, I'd like to see Guo Yuxin as Chu Yun Ling and reduce suitors to 2 and retain the rival/brother character.

Favourite scene
When FL discovered the mermaid identity of her 4 suitors

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Revenge best accomplished with a loving partner

I watched this drama because GOT7's Youngjae said he enjoyed this series. I LOVE Perfect Marriage Revenge! Story seems like elevated version of Harlequin / Mills & Boon novella (hey some of the novellas are well written).

Highly recommended if you're seeking a kdrama that has revenge, contract marriage, loving male lead, mature relationship, twisted family drama.

What I like:
1) Romance - Sizzling chemistry between Sung Hoon & Yoo Min with right balance of push & pull. Their romance is believable and geared towards more mature side. It's very rare to see male lead who has empathy & is emotionally invested in relationship from the start.
2) Writing - Honestly I didn't like episode 1 because Yi-joo was a doormat. However my opinion changed in Episode 2 when she decided to take control of her fate and take revenge over those who had done her wrong. This series is like a soap opera but with its fast-pacing, I never felt bored or annoyed. I also sensed a true partnership between female lead Yi-joo and male lead Du Gok right from episode 2.
3) Male lead characterisation - I couldn't read Du Gok's character in earlier episodes. He seemed to willing to help Yi-joo but what's in it for him? However, episode 6 is when my opinion changed. Du Gok showed different sides: cheekiness, empathy, affection & attraction. That confession was emotionally and physically charged, wow.
4) Supporting cast - I like Yi-joo's best friend, Du Gok's mother, grandmother and sister.
5) Yi-joo characterisation - I like her character development. She was a doormat at the start, then became vengeful but once she found an ally/partner who believes in her, she realises what's important to her and changed her mindset. She still got her revenge. I'm happy with the decision she made for her family's company because it breaks this chaebol/management must be from family cycle.
6) The ending - I like the final episode especially when it started with Yi-joo and Du Gok forgoing their concerns about the countdown and lived life as normal instead of being overly cautious. I like how the series is concluded at the end.

What I dislike:
1) Lee Min-young and Ji-hee are insufferable. Hate them so much.
2) I would have liked more sensual moments between Yi-joo and Do Guk after episode 6 because I don't know if she genuinely liked Du Gok after episode 6 and before being questioned by his grandmother.

Favourite scene
When Yi-joo and Du-gok went on vacation in episode 6. Bed room scenes - both nights. I giggled then cried because that confession was heartfelt.

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Riveting performances but I disliked main characters

I was excited to see Guo Yu Xin's new drama being talked about in reddit. Got to watch it today and I must say that it was a rollercoaster ride. While I enjoyed the performance by both Guo Yu Xin and Liu Yu Hang, this is one of those dramas I am fine watching it once.

What I liked:
1. Acting - I am a fan of Guo Yu Xin so I knew she was going to nail her role here. This is my first time watching Liu Yu Hang and I was impressed by his performance. It broke my heart to see him cry.
2. Romance - For me, it was painful watching their transactional relationship because I felt ML crossed the line a few times and FL was clearly uncomfortable about it. Once they were friends, then I was invested in their relationship. The intimate scenes were full of passion & desire, kudos to GYX & LYH for excellent acting. The height difference was very notable here but wasn't as jarring as Ke Chun - Yu Yin.
3. Supporting characters - I liked ML's two male friends very much. His supposed white moonlight and admirer were ok after all. I also liked FL's grandma.
4. Styling - I really liked ML's styling as it matched his brooding energy. FL's outfits were mostly good except for that swimsuit, which looked like night gown. GYX wore a gliterry pale yellow dress which is memorable but too whimsical.

What I disliked:
1. Breakup - I hated the breakup & longterm separation and I blamed it on FL's immaturity. I understand that she had hard time dealing with her feelings but she shouldn't be mad at ML for too long because it wasn't his fault. That reconciliation scene was too short!
2. Antagonists - Now I see ML's mother as the main antagonist. Wow she was really something and I won't be wishing her Happy Mother's Day tomorrow.
3. Main characters - Now I hate to write this but I didn't like both ML & FL. There was too much misery. ML was too aggressive and unhinged at the start but later was ok once he took on the friend role. I felt like the first act could be shortened so ML could be more likeable. FL was ok at the start but I disliked her for turning her back against ML in the third act.

Favourite scene
When they confessed their feelings after a longterm separation

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Impressed by the writing and acting despite the goofy styling

I found out about this drama on Tian Shou Le, Ta Lao Gong Er Zi Shi Feng Huang MDL page. Other MDL members were talking about a werewolf drama and I got curious. I did a buddy watch of this drama with Fae and both of us enjoyed it very much.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - She's an awesome mom! I love her protectiveness over and love for her son. That dialogue when she comforted her son because his werewolf features were showing, was really touching. This is my first time watching Lin Zirong and I must say I was impressed by how she expressed her character's emotions. I'll definitely watch her other dramas.
2. ML characterisation - I loved it when he apologised for misunderstanding FL at the start of their acquaintances. It's quite rare for me to hear ML explicitly say sorry for making assumptions. Anyway I liked ML as an individual, boss/leader, and a father. Zhao Guan Yu was good in this role.
3. Romance - The romance had a good balance of sweet gestures and spicy intimacy. I usually don't like sex scenes when FL is intoxicated but in this case, it seemed that alcohol lowered her inhibitions and led her to express her true feelings. That scene was hot because she took initiative. I also liked that they talked about their feelings and initial impressions of each other.
4. Supporting characters - The kid actor was well cast and did well in his role. His eyes looked like Lin Zirong's and loved the mullet hair. ML's assistant was a great sidekick and I also liked the other werewolf who told FL about the prophecy.
5. Styling - I find the werewolf hair and paws so adorable hehehe. I wish the stylist had not used glasses on ML. Just let him rock that weird hairdo, fangs and coloured contact lenses without the glasses.
6. Wolf lore - I liked how wolf lore was integrated into the story e.g. 1 mate for life, travel in packs.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - I think the baddies at the restaurant was quite random even though they were connected to FL's cousin. However overall I think there were good variation of baddies from FL's family & ML's wolf tribe to the evil scientists.

Favourite scene
FL calmed her son who was starting to show his werewolf features in public

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Live action Mills & Boon story done right!

I used to read Mills & Boon books and this story is quite familiar. A second chance romance of a separated couple and the male lead doesn't know that he has a child with his ex partner. I came across this series while browsing Mango TV short plays on YouTube. The synopsis peaked my interest so I bookmarked it and yesterday, binged on the series. I VERY MUCH LOVE THIS MINI DRAMA!

What I liked:
1. Bai Luoan characterisation - She is one of my favourite female leads! She is independent, intelligent and firm with her stance and principles. I like that she insisted to Huo Ling and Chen Wen Shi that she did not need their help to solve her problems. She is also kind as seen in her actions towards Chen Wen Shi, Mrs Huo, Huo Wei - it's great that Min Yan recognised her kindness.
2. The romance - When Bai Luoan and Huo Ling are in sync, you see true partnership in sickness and in health. Mature relationship. Damn, the kisses are hot! I also enjoy the tender moments between Bai Luoan and Huo Ling for example when they discussed having children and the proposals. I also liked how they handled the "morning after" - I like Bai Luoan's view on it!
3. The editing - It's interesting that this series starts with a conflict scene. I thought the male lead was the villain - a handsome one - and he was so despicable in the earlier episodes.
4. Acting - I was impressed by Wang Xing Wei's acting because he was great in portraying different sides of Huo Ling: sulky ex-partner, tender lover, no-nonsense businessman and a family man. Wang Zi Jia was amazing in her portrayal of Bai Luoan.
5. The ending - It's rare to get a final episode that is filled with happy moments. The last two minutes were very sweet and meaningful!
6. The writing - The plot is not new but the execution was done well. My favourite quote "I thought you were in the dark. Only then we can understand better. Light a lamp for others as you move forward." I sense the overall theme of this mini series is forgiveness. I like how the antagonists are handled.

What I disliked:
1. Huo Ling's lack of apology - I wish there was a scene of Huo Ling grovelling to Bai Luoan for the horrendous breakup and despicable actions 5 years later towards her.
2. Harm to Zhao Zhao - Pity that she was in stressful situations.

Favourite scene
When Bai Luoan and Huo Ling finally reconciled and kissed. I can see/sense desire and love in them.

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Hot, hot, hot kisses but the length & amount of antagonists affected my enjoyement

I enjoy Zuo Yi's dramas but Zhang Bei Xi's dramas can be hit or miss with me. I decided to give this a chance and did not regret it. I enjoyed this drama.

What I liked:
1. FL character - Sneaky & smart.
2. Acting - Zuo Yi brought her charm and Zhang Bei Yi was surprisingly charming / less cold in this drama. Great chemistry between them.
3. Romance - Hot, hot, hot kisses. They were affectionate couple. Physical touch is their love language. I liked that there were warmth moments between them.
4. Supporting characters - I liked Assistant Xu.
5. Styling - Great clothes for ML. I liked his plain white shirt & navy trousers combo. Zuo Yi's outfits fit her petite frame and she wore pretty shoes.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Xing Mo, Bai Qing Qing & Zhao Shan were vicious and annoying. I also disliked ML's grandfather because he was selfish. Shen Yan Zhiu was a petulant nepo baby.
2. Length - At 3 hours 5 min, this drama was too long for me. I think some antagonist arcs could be eliminated because they didn't add much value to the story.

Favourite scene
When FL celebrated ML's birthday with a cake

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Deng Ling Shu shines in this opposites attract rom-com

I am a big fan of Zhao Ting Yi's acting. I didn't like Deng Ling Shu's FL in the Prince is Wild drama but her acting in the drama with Cheng Cheng was good. I had not watched The wife with an agenda before watching this drama so I didn't know about their chemistry. Good thing I enjoyed this drama a lot.

What I liked:
1. FL characterisation - Her post-transmigration attitude was awesome. She was bubbly, smart & dazzling.
2. ML characterisation - He had rigid personality but slowly let loose as he got to know FL.
3. Tone - Funny from the get go.
4. Acting - Deng Ling Shu shone during comedic bits. She managed to exude joy & bubbly into her character. Zhou Ting Yi gave good performance though I found this was non-challenging role for him. Their chemistry was great.
5. Supporting characters - Butler is the MVP. Delighted to see Peng Yao playing FL's best friend. Other characters that I liked include ML's grandma, ML's assistant - loved them for being understanding.
6. Romance - Slowburn because FL was more concerned about her future. I enjoyed watching ML longing for FL's touch & affections. I loved the notes.

What I disliked:
1. Communication - There were assumptions made by ML about FL's actions. I wish ML had talked about his insecurities / concerns with FL instead of making assumptions.
2. Antagonist - FL's ex was a narcissist.

Favourite scene
When FL confessed to ML about her feelings

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Heartfelt age gap romance that I enjoyed it immensely

I stumbled upon this drama via subreddit CShortDramas. I clicked the link I found to check for English subtitles and was drawn to the first two minutes of the drama. I decided to watch it immediately (because “watch later” approach for Dailymotion links doesn’t work for me) and was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this drama.

What I liked:
1. Opening scene - I was hooked after the first two minutes. Loved FL’s bold move!
2. Acting - It was my first time watching Huai Wen and Liu Jia Xi’s acting and I liked their performances. The drama was warm and heartfelt - I almost shed a tear when FL confronted her parents. Oh, I liked Huai Wen’s visuals - he turned 40 last month!
3. FL characterisation - She was abused by her family but decided at one point to leave toxicity behind by striking a deal with ML. FL was 21 year old but was mature, smart and knew what to do with the authority she had been given.
4. ML characterisation - He was 39 year old businessman whonwas pragmatic & straightforward. I liked his response to FL's proposal. He was also kind, protective and nurturing towards FL.
5. Romance - Slow burn, which was fitting considering FL’s age and their circumstances (they got married for convenience and the big age gap). I liked that they communicated regularly (they spoke about what they wanted out of the marriage at their first meeting!). I could also feel the love and affections they had for each other. They were partners for life! I wish there were hot, fiery kisses.
6. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's employee who was assigned as bodyguard to FL. He built good rapport with FL that she treated him as ally rather than nuisance.
7. Family - Core theme of this drama. I liked that it was explored in many ways, (i) FL - ML, (ii) FL and her family, (iii) ML and his family.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - FL was emotionally abused by her family - they were horrible people. I also disliked FL's ex / ML's son who was spoilt brat.

Favourite scene
The opening

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Combustible chemistry in this romance heavy drama between two rivals

I am preparing a reddit post on Han Jia Hui's dramas so last night I decided to watch this drama. This is the third time Han Jia Hui and Wang Zi Lin worked together so I had some expectations since I enjoyed Love is Never Too Late. I was right - I enjoyed this drama a lot!

What I liked:
1. Romance - Steamy scenes were short but sexy. There were plenty of kissing. touching, hugging - physical touch is their love language. I also liked that they flirted at different stages of their relationship.
2. ML characterisation - I was surprised when he knew about FL's hidden identity. I thought he would sulk. ML was patient, caring and also sensitive. He was very sincere in his love for FL. I understood why he chose to separate from FL when the secret was officially out.
3. FL characterisation - She had two personas (true self - the heiress, and fake self - timid, weak wife). I saw her fake self as a shield to stay guarded and avoid getting hurt. She was flawed but her character grew as the drama progressed.
4. Rival arc - I liked that both FL and ML were rivals even though it was caused by a rumour. FL's brothers were business rivals to ML - their rivalry wasn't as ferocious as Capulet vs Montague.
5. Supporting characters - FL's brothers were entertaining. Second brother provided comic relief while first brother was the more rational one. I also liked ML's assistant.
6. Acting - Great performance from Han Jia Hui and Wang Zi Lin. He looked spellbound by FL throughout the drama - I loved this soft side of Wang Zi Lin. Their chemistry was electric and this duo was visually stunning.
7. Styling - I loved FL's outfits from the biker chic to the caramel top & pants. ML's outfits were beautiful too - I liked WZL in his blue-green suit. Plus their hair was beautifully styled too.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - ML's mother was controlling - she was reluctant to let the company be led by ML. I thought her plans to have ML married to his childhood friend was her way of keeping the company within her control. I also disliked ML's childhood friend. She was totally out of line but can't blame her because ML's mother enabled that behaviour. Glad that antagonists didn't get much screentime.
2. FL's action - I disliked that she self-sabotaged her relationship with ML especially when she told his childhood friend the reason for her marriage. ML overheard and of course he was hurt.

Favourite scene
When ML started smoking during a meeting with FL and her second brother

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FL dumped by boyfriend but she later went out with his younger bro

I watched this drama within the weekend of its release because it was hotly talked about in subreddit CShortDramas. This is another version of Cao Sai Ya - Chen Ming Hao drama but I watched this version first. I enjoyed this version but I must say that Cao Sai Ya & Chen Ming Hao was a better couple - I enjoy their lovey dovey scenes so much more.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Good mix of sweet & spicy. Spicy start to their relationship.
2. FL characterisation - Emotionally strong. Never allowed anyone to bully her.
3. ML characterisation - I liked his protectiveness. I also liked that he prioritised FL in his life.
4. Zhou Ting Yi - He was captivating on screen. I got it why FL stayed with him in a secret relationship for four years.
5. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's grandpa. I also liked ML's friend who was also an ally to FL (he was the jewellery designer).
6. Grovelling - This was my second time in 12 hours that I watched SML on bended knees begging for forgiveness.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonist - He treated FL badly. He was egoistic & condescending. He did not deserve FL.
2. Rich brat - The girl who wanted to marry ML & was mean. I was glad no one from Shen family bought her antics.

Favourite scene
When FL met Shen grandpa for the first time

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Wasted opportunity with too little romance & too much screentime for antagonist

I am a fan of both Lin Zi Rong and Yang Yu Bin so I was delighted to see that they work together in this drama. Unfortunately I was disappointed with how this drama turned out.

What I liked:
1. Yang Yu Bin - He was very handsome despite his character being two-dimensional.
2. Styling - I liked FL's wedding gown. Very whimsical.
3. Supporting characters - I liked that FL's grandpa acted as ML's love advisor.

What I disliked:
1. Screentime - ML first appeared in the 39th minute and he did not have much screentime. What a waste of opportunity.
2. Antagonist - Adopted sister acted like a petulant child. I found adopted brothers, especially no. 4 & 2, were very two-dimensional. It was also icky that the brothers were raised as potential husbands to FL and they all lived together. I thought these adopted siblings had too much screentime and their arcs did not interest me. I increased speed to 2.0x whenever they appeared on screen.
3. Romance - It was underdeveloped. I wish screentime allocated to antagonists was re-distributed to the romance story.

Favourite scene
When FL surrendered to ML

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Sexy drama with good chemistry. My favourite Jin Jia Yu role!

I came across this drama on subreddit CShortDramas. My last drama of Jin Jia Yu was Go Where You Are so I was excited to watch this drama. Damn, he really delivered this time. I enjoyed this drama a lot.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Hot passionate kisses and damn, JJY kissed her navel. I also enjoyed the sweet & tender moments too. Apart from hidden identity, this couple had a mature, healthy relationship.
2. FL characterisation - She was physically & mentally strong. I liked how she was not easily intimidated by threats.
3. ML characterisation - Loving & coquettish. I didn't expect him to be in that profession! My favourite role of JJY.
4. Gratitude - I liked that it ponder upon the concept of gratitude. If you do an act of kindness once, are you expecting the beneficiary to be forever indebted to you?
5. Styling - Great outfits worn by both FL & ML but I wanna talk about the apron. Whoever told JJY to wear apron without a shirt is a genius!

What I disliked:
1. FL's action - Dangerous move during hostage takeover. She shouldn't barge in.
2. Antagonists - Wow, FL's arranged fiance is scumbag arrogant. His mistress was annoying too - brave of her to come to FL and unveil her pregnancy. ML's family was not good too.

Favourite scene
Shirtless apron

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Long-winded slowburn romance with no third party interference

I am a massive Guo Yu Xin fan and when I saw the poster of this drama a few days ago, I was delighted. I had never seen Huang Hao Wen dramas before even though I've saved them in playlist. Overall I liked this drama and watching it once is enough for me.

What I liked:
1. Main characters - Both ML & FL were very likeable. I found FL's monologues endearing although at times I wish she had said it out loud and had conversations with ML.
2. Styling - I really liked traditional clothes worn by both of them when they were back at FL's hometown. I also think the styling for flashbacks was done well - Huang Hao Wen did look like a high school student with that hairstyle.
3. Romance - Their romance was saccharine sweet. It's beartwarming to see ML confiding in FL about his insecurity and jealousy. There were several nice kisses though I wish we got spicier moments. If I had a guy who liked me and had agreed to marry me, I'd jump his bones the moment we got home with marriage license!
4. Acting - Both did well in their roles. I liked Huang Hao Wen's approach to his character - quiet confidence but with a dash of vulnerability.
5. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's grandma, FL's mother, sister, her college friends and ML's former schoolmates. The first time FL's mom & sis met ML and his grandma was amusing.

What I disliked:
1. Duration - 3.5 hours is too long for a slowburn romance that doesn't have third party meddling in their relationship. I played this drama at 2x speed so I could finish this drama fast.
2. Writing - I was bored by the time I reached halfway mark because there wasn't anything exciting happening to FL and ML. I also felt that both FL & ML lacked character development despite the ample screentime.

Favourite scene
When ML's grandma visited the florist to find a wife for ML

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Spicy jiejie romance that could have been great with better emotional connection

I was very intrigued by the drama's poster. The English-translated title implied younger man-older woman romance (my favourite trope) and the ML looked hot! So I clicked play and I enjoyed the drama.

What I liked:
1. Romance - Damn, the intimate scenes were blazing hot - there were heavy kissing & spicy dialogue. There were sweet moments as well. I liked that ML was attracted to FL even when he lost his memory.
2. FL characterisation - I loved that she was never condescending to ML despite him being a kept man. She was protective of him whenever she got slandered due to their relationship. She was frustrated with her family but was never vicious.
3. ML characterisation - I liked how he took care of FL. I didn't like that he kept his identity from FL for awhile but he was an overall a nice & sincere man. Shao Wei looked damn hot especially with the apron.
4. Styling - Great clothes worn by both FL & ML. Kudos to stylist for FL's outfits & hairstyling during flashback. Chu Aixu looked high school pretty there.
5. Supporting characters - I really liked ML's grandma and brother.

What I disliked:
1. Antagonists - Blatant favouritism there.
2. Connection - The couple had great physical relationship but I couldn't see emotional connection between them. I wish there were more couple-in-love scenes just before the ending.

Favourite scene
The first time FL saw ML in her kitchen

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