You Are My Lover Friend- Episodes 17-20
Episode 17 Recap: The Food Connection, a Class Reunion, and Almost Confessions
In the quiet evening, Tang Yang and Jiang Shiyan strolled through the neighborhood, sharing stories and laughter under the stars. Jiang Shiyan revealed something he had kept to himself for a long time: he had started Yixiu Haochi, his food exploration channel, because of her. He reminisced about how Tang Yang always brought him treats growing up, from hot pot to skewers to the instant noodles they cooked together. When Tang Yang left for her master’s and then her PhD, he’d felt the distance between them. Hoping to keep a piece of home alive for her, he began exploring local food spots, crafting each video to remind her of their hometown’s flavors.
Tang Yang smiled and confessed that during her late study nights in the university library, she often watched his videos for comfort. His cheerful food reviews became her source of motivation and comfort, helping her push through the long hours. She laughed, recalling how one of her roommates had been envious of a girl whose boyfriend was also her childhood friend. Tang Yang found the idea of a friendship blossoming into love both beautiful and mysterious—sometimes, it was hard to tell where friendship ended and love began.
Jiang Shiyan’s heart raced; he wanted to tell her everything he’d been feeling. But as he looked into her eyes, words failed him. Just then, Tang Yang’s phone rang—it was her mother calling her home. Once again, the moment slipped away.
Meanwhile, things at the bank were taking a strange turn. Both Gan Yiming and Lin Lang had taken leave, and Tang Yang was asked to temporarily cover Gan Yiming’s responsibilities. Unbeknownst to her, Gan Yiming was scheming. A shady company was pushing for a large loan that should never have been approved, but due to connections, it had slipped through before. Gan Yiming decided to put Tang Yang in a tight spot and watch how she’d handle it.
That evening, Jiang Shiyan arrived at the bank to pick Tang Yang up. Her colleagues couldn’t help but tease her about how her “talk” with him had gone. Tang Yang, unsure herself, simply smiled and left it to fate. Seeing Jiang Shiyan waiting for her filled her with joy. On the drive back, their hands brushed as she passed him a water cup, sparking a moment of shared excitement. Both wanted to reach for the other’s hand but hesitated, their hearts racing with unspoken feelings.
When they reached her apartment, Jiang Shiyan finally made his move, reaching out and taking her hand. Just as they shared this quiet, intimate moment, an elderly lady bustled over and handed them each a pile of plums. Now both their hands were full, and the chance for a romantic hand-hold was gone.
Feng Weiran later mentioned a class reunion was coming up and that their old classmate, Chang Xinyi, would be attending. Known for her lively personality and beauty, Feng thought she’d be a perfect fit as a livestream host. He even joked about how most of the boys had been smitten with her in school—everyone except Jiang Shiyan, that is. Feng Weiran was clueless that Jiang Shiyan’s heart had always been with Tang Yang.
On the day of the reunion, Jiang Yanan prepared by doing a facial mask at home, even convincing her husband, Feng Weiran, to join in. No one wanted to show up looking tired and weathered, after all. Feng chuckled, remarking that Tang Yang was probably immune to such things, being a bit of a tomboy. But at that very moment, Tang Yang herself was at home, carefully applying a facial mask while engrossed in a book, perhaps secretly excited for the reunion.
The stage is set for the next chapter—will these two finally find the right moment to confess their true feelings, or will life keep getting in the way? The reunion promises sparks, nostalgia, and maybe even a little more clarity for Tang Yang and Jiang Shiyan as they inch closer to understanding what they truly mean to each other.
Episode 18 Recap: Sparks Fly and Secrets Unfold at the Class Reunion
Tang Yang arrived at the long-awaited class reunion, where laughter and nostalgia filled the room as friends reminisced about the past. Among them was Chang Xinyi, whose presence seemed to revive old memories—especially the brief romance she once shared with Jiang Shiyan. The topic naturally surfaced, and someone even asked Tang Yang if she knew about it. Meanwhile, Jiang Shiyan, oblivious to the unfolding drama, was in the next room helping out with the fruit trays.
Looking genuinely surprised, Tang Yang admitted she had no idea about Jiang Shiyan and Chang Xinyi's history. Having spent three years in a different city for her PhD, she missed out on a lot, including this revelation. Feng Weiran filled her in, explaining that the relationship had been fleeting and ended quietly. Yet, a pang of jealousy tugged at Tang Yang’s heart.
As dinner began, Tang Yang couldn’t help but notice Jiang Shiyan and Chang Xinyi engrossed in conversation, laughing and sharing memories as if she wasn’t there. Frustrated and feeling sidelined, she turned to her own company—beer cans, one after another. While she was spirited and carefree, often dressed in neutral, laid-back attire, Chang Xinyi had a graceful elegance about her, with flowing hair and sophisticated dresses. Tang Yang couldn’t shake the feeling that she was facing real competition.
After the meal, Tang Yang decided to step back and let fate take its course. She asked Jiang Shiyan to take Chang Xinyi home, choosing to leave with Feng Weiran instead. And so, as the evening wound down, Jiang Shiyan and Chang Xinyi were left alone in the car, an awkwardness settling between them. Chang Xinyi made small talk, teasing that Tang Yang must have a high alcohol tolerance, prompting Jiang Shiyan to realize just how much Tang Yang had been drinking. After dropping Chang Xinyi off, Jiang Shiyan went back to find Tang Yang, who was still sitting by her table at home, drowning her thoughts in another drink.
When Jiang Shiyan knocked on her door, Tang Yang, a little tipsy and a lot frustrated, asked why he’d come back instead of staying with his so-called “white moonlight.” With a gentle denial, Jiang Shiyan told her she had it all wrong—Chang Xinyi wasn’t his “white moonlight.” Tang Yang, unconvinced, grabbed him by the collar, demanding an answer.
In an uncharacteristically bold move, Jiang Shiyan confessed that she was his “little sun.” Amused and teary-eyed, Tang Yang burst into laughter and led him to the bathroom, pointing at the ceiling light and asking if he really knew what a “little sun” was. Jiang Shiyan couldn’t help but laugh at the absurdity, realizing she’d taken his metaphor a little too literally.
That night, Tang Yang, tipsy and sentimental, questioned Jiang Shiyan endlessly—about his first kiss, about Chang Xinyi, and even insisted on a kiss from him. Just as the moment became charged with emotion, Tang Yang dozed off mid-sentence. Though tempted, Jiang Shiyan chose to be honorable, setting up a makeshift bed on the floor to look after her.
In the morning, Tang Yang awoke to the delicious aroma of breakfast. Jiang Shiyan had whipped up a bowl of comforting purple rice porridge. Just as she was about to dig in, a knock interrupted them. Jiang Yanan, tear-streaked and visibly upset, entered. Feng Weiran, her husband, had decided to sell their home without discussing it with her, sparking a heated disagreement. Heartbroken over what she saw as their marital home, Yanan sought refuge with Tang Yang, vowing not to return until Feng Weiran made amends.
Meanwhile, Feng Weiran, anxious and desperate, kept calling Tang Yang, hoping she might be able to mediate the situation. With tensions high and emotions tangled, it was clear that this was only the beginning of a whirlwind of unresolved feelings, old rivalries, and deep-seated conflicts.
Episode 19 Recap: Tang Yang Uncovers Secrets, and Jiang Shiyan Faces His Fears
Tang Yang took over a project at the bank left behind by her colleague, Gan Yiming, and soon noticed a loan application that raised a red flag. The company's financials didn’t quite add up, yet management seemed eager to support it. Torn, Tang Yang decided to consult her senior, diving into the company's startup history and operations to assess its repayment ability.
Meanwhile, Jiang Yanan was still crashing at Tang Yang’s place, prompting Feng Weiran to plead with Tang Yang for help in bringing his wife home. Crafty as ever, Tang Yang invited Jiang Yanan’s son over to visit. Hearing her child’s longing for home, Jiang Yanan’s heart melted, and she promptly returned home with him.
Just as things were settling down, Tang Yang received a call from Chang Xinyi, who asked to meet up—a surprise that sparked Tang Yang’s curiosity. Over coffee, Chang Xinyi revealed her agenda: she wanted Tang Yang to convince Jiang Shiyan to take his company public. Tang Yang, always direct, explained that while Jiang Shiyan affectionately called her “Yang-ge,” they had a firm boundary on work matters. Besides, Jiang Shiyan’s track record proved his instincts were spot-on, and Tang Yang had no intention of meddling.
This meeting left Chang Xinyi both impressed and a bit envious; she now understood why Jiang Shiyan was so captivated by Tang Yang and had eyes for no one else. The following day, before leaving town, Chang Xinyi playfully urged Jiang Shiyan to confess his feelings to Tang Yang soon, or risk losing her to someone else. Laughing, Jiang Shiyan revealed that he and Tang Yang were, in fact, already together. Inspired, he decided to plan a weekend getaway to a beautiful inn nestled in the mountains and called Tang Yang to invite her for a Friday hike and a taste of the local cuisine.
Excited for their weekend, Jiang Shiyan took care to reserve a few specialty dishes for their arrival. But when Friday finally came, Tang Yang suddenly went silent. She’d messaged Jiang Shiyan in the morning, but then her replies ceased. After waiting anxiously, he rushed to her apartment, only to find it locked and empty. Alarmed, he contacted everyone he could think of—Jiang Yanan, her parents, even the bank—but no one knew where she was.
In a fit of desperation, Jiang Shiyan went to Tang Yang’s parents' house. Her mother reassured him calmly, suggesting Tang Yang’s phone probably just died. Still, Jiang Shiyan couldn't shake his worry and enlisted Zhou Mo's help to track her down. Finally, he learned Tang Yang had left for a business errand, and his panic eased slightly.
Elsewhere, Feng Weiran returned from his business trip expecting his wife to have forgiven him. But instead, he found his belongings packed by the door, a stark reminder of the consequences of his unilateral decisions. Feng’s plan to sell their old home without consulting her had backfired spectacularly, and Jiang Shiyan sympathized, thinking it was no surprise that Feng was facing the music now.
Finally, Tang Yang called, and Jiang Shiyan dropped everything to see her. The moment he spotted her standing there, all his tension evaporated. Overcome with emotion, he couldn’t help but ask if she was alright, his relief and affection unmistakable.
Episode 20 Recap: Tang Yang Uncovers Trouble, and Jiang Shiyan Faces Both Family and Health Woes
Tang Yang took on the responsibility of investigating a risky loan application for a company under her review at the bank. Visiting the law enforcement department, she sought out records that might reveal any shady dealings. After a lot of digging, she found clues that confirmed her suspicions—approving this loan would indeed be a gamble.
Upon her return, Jiang Shiyan picked her up, listening to her vent about the dreadful hotel bathrooms on her trip that had left her feeling grimy for days. Ever resourceful, Jiang Shiyan handed her some mugwort leaves, insisting that a soak would make her feel brand new. Tang Yang couldn’t help but chuckle—despite being a well-known CEO, here he was acting like her devoted, thoughtful sidekick.
Amusingly, Yi Xiu, Jiang Shiyan’s company, had amassed such a fan following that one fan even asked Tang Yang for his autograph, not knowing that the two were close friends. Tang Yang stifled a laugh; just the night before, she and Jiang Shiyan had been sharing barbecue skewers—and she’d even picked up the tab! To welcome her back, Jiang Shiyan went the extra mile, setting up a cozy hotpot dinner at her place, and as they shared a meal, it felt like a glimpse into a settled domestic life.
Jiang Shiyan tried to plan another meal, but Tang Yang’s mind was still on work; Gan Yiming’s leftover business was proving to be a handful. Meanwhile, Feng Weiran’s family drama was spiraling—when he returned home, he found his entry code changed, and his young son barely cracked the door to ask for a new toy. As soon as he handed it over, his son slammed the door shut, reminding Feng that if he came inside, he’d have to move into the old house. Stuck and exhausted from days of sleeping at the office, Feng Weiran reached out to Tang Yang for advice.
Coincidentally, Tang Yang’s next stop was a company called Qing Lai, where an enthusiastic admissions teacher tried hard to sell her on memberships. But Tang Yang wasn’t so sure about the school’s enrollment numbers. Her doubts were confirmed when a frustrated parent yanked her son out of a classroom, scolding him for wasting lesson fees. The scene escalated, with the child crying and the mother unfazed. Tang Yang couldn’t stay silent; she gently reminded the mother that hitting her child would hurt him emotionally and disrupt other kids, but the woman snapped, calling Tang Yang out for interfering.
Seeing Tang Yang’s effort, Jiang Shiyan joined in, attempting to reason with the mother. Yet, her attitude was unbreakable, and even they couldn’t calm her down. Thankfully, a teacher arrived to mediate, and the mother left, albeit grudgingly. As they walked back to the car, Tang Yang reminded Jiang Shiyan that he shouldn’t have stepped in so visibly—it might look bad if anyone had recorded it and posted it online, given his high-profile position.
Jiang Shiyan merely chuckled at her concern, touched that she still looked out for him. He admired her consistent sense of justice and her readiness to step in for what she believed was right—traits she’d shown since their school days.
Elsewhere, Jiang Yanan was on a walk with her son when she bumped into an old classmate in real estate. The friend urged her to sell her current home soon to avoid complications with their new house contract. Only then did she realize that Feng Weiran had already put down a deposit on the new place, triggering yet another argument between the two.
Amid all this turmoil, Jiang Shiyan’s health took a hit as his appendicitis flared up. Tang Yang acted fast, calling Feng Weiran for help. The urgency of the situation brought Feng and Jiang Yanan together, momentarily halting their argument as they rushed to support Jiang Shiyan, showing that sometimes family bonds are only strengthened in moments of crisis.
DramaZen's Opinion
So far, Shiyan and Yang’s journey from friends to lovers is unfolding beautifully! I love how natural their progression feels—no awkwardness or forced moments. Their chemistry is realistic and unhurried, making every step in their transition feel genuine and relatable.
But, oh, their friends! Instead of helping, they keep stirring up drama, feeding Shiyan and Yang little pieces of gossip without checking the facts first. It’s classic, really—friends playing matchmaker but doing more harm than good. Thankfully, Shiyan and Yang are sharp enough to clear up these misunderstandings quickly, and the writers are wise not to drag out the confusion unnecessarily.
It seems like a hint of jealousy is on the horizon, which I’m totally here for! It’s about time they both confront their deeper feelings and realize just how much they mean to each other. And I wouldn’t be surprised if Tang’s first love shows up for an extra twist—it feels like the perfect moment to add that plotline.
One thing that felt a little off, though, was when Tang suddenly disappeared without giving Shiyan a heads-up, leaving him to track her down through mutual friends. It seemed odd that the writers didn’t address that more. They just skipped over the whole incident, and the next time we see them, they’re chatting as if nothing happened. A little continuity would’ve gone a long way there!
As for Jiang Yanan and her husband, I’m fully behind her on fighting back against his unilateral decision to sell their home. She’s a full-time homemaker, and it’s easy for her contributions to be overlooked. For her husband to make such a big decision without consulting her? That’s downright disrespectful. This is a major family decision, and she deserves a say in it.
