cyn lynn : You Are My Secret | Recap and Review

An office couple "marries" first and loves ~~second~~ first.

Notable Actors/Actresses

Wei Zhe Ming: Ji Yu Heng

Zhang Jia Ning: Tu Xiao Ning

Screenwriter

Xin Xiao Yang, Hao Ru, Sun Meng Jie

Chinese Title

私藏浪漫

Hidden Romance

Genres: Contemporary, Romcom, "CEO", Contemporary Romcom

Network: MangoTV

Year: 2024
Episodes: 32 + Extra

Recap Grade: C/D
First Impression: 3.35/5

Jump to Remarks | Recs | Comments

Recaps: [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11] [12] [13] [14] [15] [16] [17] [18] [19] [20] [21] [22] [23] [24] [25] [26] [27] [28] [29] [30] [31] [32] [Extra]

Cast


Wei Zhe Ming: Ji Yu Heng	Zhang Jia Ning: Tu Xiao Ning

Zhou Cheng Ao: Zhao Fang Gang	Wang Zhen Er: Rao Jing

Dai Yun Fan: Qi Yu	Ke Ying: Ling Wei Yi

Mini Recaps

Recaps will run differently. I will condense everything to under 10 points/ep.

[Ep1] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

At 27yo, our FL, Tu Xiao Ning, has 2 goals: internship conversion and single-hood conversion. She goes to a match-making interview, and has the life sucked out of her. A man, however, is immediately drawn to her. He's Ji Yu Heng. They're high school alumni. Match is made ~
Tu Xiao Ning rides in Ji Yu Heng's "Car of Humiliation". Her speakerphone is accidentally on, and her motorbike is crying in his trunk. Worst of all, he parrots the audio message from her friend, "[So] you want to ..capture me?" The siren is the sound of her heart screaming in mortification LOL.
~~Tu Xiao Ning's parents force her to go on blind-dates~~. Oops, sorry. Redo: Tu Xiao Ning forces her parents to find her a blind date, and they're running from her. LOL.
Rao Jing (the de facto leader of Tu Xiao Ning's new department) inspires Tu Xiao Ning to not quit. Rao Jing did nothing special, but be herself. It's 100% Rao Jing's charisma and her work attitude that motivated Tu Xiao Ning to learn under her wing. Rao Jing actress was in Go Go Squid! I love that she's a similar girl-crush character and already better here.
Tu Xiao Ning had a bad breakup a year ago. Her boyfriend (Lu Si Jing) ran away from the proposal that who planned? She planned herself the proposal for him to propose? Huh. Then she finally ended their 7 year relationship. Well, ex is back and he wants her back. Tu Xiao Ning is certain she doesn't want him back. She clearly rejects him, he still doesn't retreat. Ji Yu Heng helps by intercepting with a rose for Tu Xiao Ning. She takes his rose to firmly reject her ex's bouquet. She spotted her ~~tree~~ rose in the ~~forest~~ bouquet.
Ji Yu Heng listens to Chopin while driving. What a show-off, lol (Jk)
Ji Yu Heng proposes: "If your wish is to only have a stable marriage then are you willing – pulls over because this is more dangerous than drunk driving – to marry me?"
Epilogue: : Ji Yu Heng's "first sight". When he first saw Tu Xiao Ning in high school, he loved her refreshing smile. When he first saw her again after 10 years, he chose her as his "wife". It's how he got the large teddy bear. He took her little bear to pair up with his.

[Ep2] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

When Tu Xiao Ning thinks the world is against her, there's Ji Yu Heng shielding all the negativity. After talking with him, Tu Xiao Ning is motivated to prove her innocence. He discreetly gave her guidance too, and she didn't fail his expectations of her professionalism. I'm glad he didn't hear her say "let's get married". That would be a terrible start to a relationship. But I'm not sure if he pretended not to hear.
Rao Jing secretly smiles for Tu Xiao Ning who overcame her obstacles.
Ji Yu Heng's mother has cancer. She's the reason he wants to marry sooner. A good misunderstanding happens and she thinks Tu Xiao Ning is Ji Yu Heng's girlfriend.
It was sweet that when Ji Yu Heng thought Tu Xiao Ning left the hospital, she was waiting outside. Her backside looked so familiar and so comforting. She takes him to eat good food too, aw.
Tu Xiao Ning accepts his proposal! "Let's get married. Tomorrow, we'll get our marriage certificate." Phew, her preamble sounded like she was going to reject. I like to believe she didn't accept because she pitied him. ~~It's 'cause he is pretty~~. I also liked that she asked what he saw in her and found that acceptable (that their personalities are agreeable and they're comfortable around each other).
She also summarized what he thinks he wants in a relationship: a marriage doesn't always need romance; comfort and security is also very important. Negative.
Epilogue: : "Redemption. In high school, Ji Yu Heng's father died after being rumoured of accepting bribes. Tu Xiao Ning was looking for shredded dry pork (a cat) and found Ji Yu Heng instead, looking like he wanted to commit suicide. He may not have planned to die, but he was dying instead. That day, Tu Xiao Ning really did save him. She approached him without any discrimination, and with only warmth. She also gave him her umbrella, hoping it can shield him until his days finally clear up. He keeps this umbrella to this day. It's the same one he covered her with earlier.

[Ep3] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

At the speed of light, our couple is asking Tu Xiao Ning's parents for their approval. To convince them, Tu Xiao Ning lies that she secretly admired Ji Yu Heng for 10 years. She didn't dare confess because he was too good for her. I bet she spoke his feelings.
Ji Yu Heng"s "Ba" and "Ma" is music to Father Tu and Mother Tu's ears. They give our "newlyweds" red pockets, but Ji Yu Heng stealthily gives his to Tu Xiao Ning. Aw! Little moments like these are sweet. Father Tu originally wanted to wish them "Give Birth to Children Soon", but stops himself at the first word.
Tu Xiao Ning kept the teddy bear on her bed and Ji Yu Heng notices ~
Ji Yu Heng slips their wedding picture in his wallet.
Tu Xiao Ning is so quick to reject Ji Yu Heng's invitation to dinner because Rao Jing is taking her to a business dinner.
Rao Jing is a great leader to Tu Xiao Ning. I was surprised and impressed that TXN's newbie blunder was planned by the ladies. Ji Yu Heng is upset at Rao Jing that Tu Xiao Ning is drunk, not knowing that Tu Xiao Ning volunteered for all the drinking. However, it seems he does recognize Rao Jing for her professionalism. .
Cohabitation commences. A drunk Tu Xiao Ning tells Ji Yu Heng how good looking he is from his eyes to nose to lips. If he wasn't this handsome, she wouldn't have agreed to flash-marry him. This is truth. But how did her luggage get there overnight.
Tu Xiao Ning cutely, and stealthily taps for her hubby's lunch because he forgot his company card.
There's a scratch on Ji Yu Heng's neck. A colleague asks, "Is it because you have a girlfriend now?" Girlfriends don't do that unless the boyfriend's a problem.
Epilogue: "His Sincerity" = His Creepiness xD. Ji Yu Heng already introduced himself to Tu Xiao Ning's parents. (Timeline: this is after he proposed in Ep1, and before she accepted at the end of Ep2). He tells her parents that he has loved her since high school.

Their best business smile.

Her home

Their home

[Ep4] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Ji Yu Heng says a cat scratched his neck. Then he peeks at his cat from across the table = Tu Xiao Ning. Ou, when are we getting her drunk epilogue?
Tu Xiao Ning breaks up with Ji Yu Heng. She's so brisk about it ): I am hurt for him. It's because Ji Yu Heng will be her direct supervisor, and there is an office relationship ban (in the same department). Compared to love, Tu Xiao Ning wants her career. A very logical decision on her part.
Ji Yu Heng has two reasons to take the position. 1) It's to save that department, which supports a lot of small businesses. 2) It's to save his mother because he needs money for her treatment. The position is high-risk and high-return.
Ji Yu Heng gives up the position for Tu Xiao Ning because she's his happiness too. Now it's Tu Xiao Ning who's upset. She finds a way to compromise. Aw. No one is giving up. They're finding a solution. It involves a contract. They will set an annual KPI, and if their relationship is exposed, the one who stays is whoever completed their KPIs. He sets his ridiculously high (double the profit) to show his sincerity. Feeling bad, she ups hers too. She's so fair. If all is successful (KPIs and unexposed), they will marry one year later.
The first blip in this secret-office-relationship: Ji Yu Heng and Tu Xiao Ning accidentally switch company IDs. They're silly idiots being so secretive in switching it back.
Epilogue: "So-called 'Besieged City'". Ji Yu Heng's house is sweetly "besieged" by Tu Xiao Ning. He likes mint toothpaste but Tu Xiao Ning prefers jasmine-tea flavoured. They compromise and buy both flavours just like how they compromised on their marriage/career plans. I like this harmony.

[Ep5] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Office politics. Since the boys are defiantly late for the meeting, Ji Yu Heng dismisses everyone the moment their lazy butts land. This seating plan is cootie-proof: immature boys on one side and good girls on the other.
The unflappable commander at work is the most gentle and considerate spouse at home. Ji Yu Heng blow-dries Tu Xiao Ning's shoes because they're giving her blisters. Tu Xiao Ning has no idea.
There's an accidental kiss, and it surprised me too.
A man is in debt after being conned by Thousand Miles of Fate (the matchmaking company in Ep1). He's unhinged and swings a dangerous fruit knife around. Ji Yu Heng blocks it for Tu Xiao Ning. It cannot be real love if man is not bleeding for his girl.
A doctor asks for Ji Yu Heng's family member. Tu Xiao Ning instinctually reacts. She even sneaks into the room to check on him.
Rao Jing calls Zhao Fang Gang a diarrhetic dog. Ha! And surprise, surprise, Rao Jing has a young boyfriend. (Zhao Fang Gang, you're too old for her!)
Ji Yu Heng waits outside for Tu Xiao Ning when she comes home late. She asks if he would risk his safety to save someone else too. He would because he's the department head, but saving her is because he's her husband.
Tu Xiao Ning updates her Weibo, "In this world, having someone who's undaunted by dangers for my sake, is not bad too~"
Epilogue: "To Be Closer". In high school, Tu Xiao Ning was ranked 36 and Ji Yu Heng was 35. It's their match-made numbers~ This mark is actually below Ji Yu Heng's usual standards, but he's happy to be next to her. They both have pictures of their names together. Hers was to show her mother, but his was to keep in his heart.

[Ep6] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Ji Yu Heng is jealous of Qi Yu, but more than jealousy, he's upset that the men at work are gossiping about Tu Xiao Ning. (There's nothing to be jealous of anyway. Qi Yu is Ling Wei Yi's ex).
Tu Xiao Ning has orders for Ji Yu Heng: come to the rooftop so she can change his dressing. Yes ma'am!
Zhao Fang Gang has hidden charms. He acts irresponsible, but he really is accountable. (Oh, and he's got an accounting mind even when he's drunk). Ji Yu Heng recognizes his character, but he's terrible at showing it, and penalizes Zhao Fang Gang.
Our couple fights over Zhao Fang Gang. Tu Xiao Ning thinks Ji Yu Heng was too pragmatic when there must be a better way of handling Zhao Fang Gang's penalty. I'm kinda looking forward to a bromance between JYH and ZFG as the most inflexible and the too flexible pair.
Mother Ji gives Tu Xiao Ning a ring on behalf of her son. She also knows they're sleeping separately.
Epilogue: "The Listener Is Attentive and wasted so much pork".

[Ep7] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Resolution. Zhao Fang Gang was already granted clemency owing to Ji Yu Heng's advocation. Ji Yu Heng actually said he needs Zhao Fang Gang to salvage their department. Aw. Tu Xiao Ning was wrong about Ji Yu Heng being an heartless boss, but she still wants him to use that mouth of his and let others know. He promises to work hard and try. Tu Xiao Ning wittingly imitates Ji Yu Heng, "Working hard" is something you tell yourself. I only look at the results."
Ji Yu Heng wants Tu Xiao Ning to promise him one thing too: don't give up their relationship that easily. Ya!
Tu Xiao Ning lets Ji Yu Heng name the fish Nemo. Nemo! No Finding Nemo. Father Tu gave away Nemo, lol. I guess the name comes from him wanting them to have perseverance and courage to overcome their obstacles together. Since he named it, she permits him to ~~do all the chores~~ take care of their kid. Sweet of her, but manipulative, ahaha.
Ling Wei Yi pukes on Tu Xiao Ning's ex. It was wonderfully deliberate. She only threw up the garbage on the garbage.
Ling Wei Yi is rich!
We have 3 ~~stalkers~~ suitors on Ling Wei Yi's street: 2 exes and one boyfriend.
Only Ji Yu Heng waited all night, and was awake when Tu Xiao Ning came down in the morning.
Epilogue: "Love Is to Restrain". Ji Yu Heng wanted to pick up Tu Xiao Ning, but restrained himself and made her honey water until she came down.

[Ep8] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

There's something Ji Yu Heng can't do: he can't drink. Tu Xiao Ning is worried for him. Meanwhile Zhao Fang Gang takes the alcohol for Rao Jing, which seems to move her.
Hand holding under the table! Squeaaals! Is he really drunk?
Tu Xiao Ning made Ji Yu Heng honey water too for him to sober up. It really worked for her last time.
Beach Night. It's winter and they're having ice cream. It's matcha. She likes her green-teas. He steals a lick of hers, and leaves all the evidence on his lips. She calls him a kid and wipes his mouth. Just when you think they'll kiss, or almost kiss, he lifts her into his arms because the waves are coming in. Awwwwwwwwwww!!! This is so romantic.
Tu Xiao Ning buys a matcha-ice-cream-squishy to thank Ji Yu Heng for the rose bouquet, but that wasn't from him. However, it turns out Ji Yu Heng did give her a bouquet, but that was 7 years ago. It was for her birthday, but she accepted the ex's confession and didn't see him. She likes the light blue roses and ex doesn't even remember and bought her the red ones, eh.

This is why Ji Yu Heng chose the blue-tinged rose for in Ep1 [Comment]

3 stalkers are at it again. LOL.
Epilogue: "A Premediated Dinner". Since Ji Yu Heng follows Tu Xiao Ning's Weibo, he read her wish of wanting bbq, which is why he prepared that meal for her. She doesn't know he knows her account.

[Ep9] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

The kiss!! Ji Yu Heng conquers the lips with Tu Xiao Ning's ex on speakerphone. I can't take it when this man pulls over.
Zhao Fang Gang wins an award. Talk about low-key.
Rao Jing claps like a cymbal chimp for the ~~chimp~~ champ. She assures Zhao Fang Fang that sitting won't kill him. Au contraire. It will. He also leaves his prized trophy at her work area while he demonstrates respect to Ji Yu Heng, lol. Ji Yu Heng is the first man who tamed him!
Sismance too: Rao Jing and Tu Xiao Ning divide and conquer to salvage a system malfunction.
Tu Xiao Ning knows Ji Yu Heng's favourite dumplings. He keeps asking if she liked him in high school, and keeps disappointing himself that she didn't.
Our couple are back at the school rooftop. It's the place Ji Yu Heng saw the most beautiful nights, and the most beautiful girl: Tu Xiao Ning. These two keep cutting off each other tho! D: He's nervous to tell her that he loved her for 10 years, especially when she tells him not to bring up the past, but the past she was referring to was her ex. Meanwhile she pities the girl who Ji Yu Heng couldn't confess to.
Tu Xiao Ning is officially in charge of the money at home. Ji Yu Heng looks pretty happy he'll be getting an allowance from his girlfriend.
Camp day. There's a soft bed at home, and they come out here to sleep together on the ground in the "wild".
Epilogue: "The Sleeping Bag That Disappeared." Ji Yu Heng did it. He also "knows everything" because he looked it up last minute! LOL. I love that.

[Ep10] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

It's not just chocolate and milk that they're secretly leaving at each other's desk, it's Product Placement love.
Tu Xiao Ning buys Ji Yu Heng the expensive calligraphy ink instead of the cheaper one that he picked. She wants him to use the best quality.
Tu Xiao Ning burned her hand, but she is more concerned about Ji Yu Heng's birthday that she didn't know about.
Zhao Fang Gang pities Ji Yu Heng who has no friends and no family to celebrate his birthday with. LOL. He plans a surprise party for him, and barges into his house for hotpot.
Dun dun dun dun! Ji Yu Heng's playlist is classical, of course.
Dun dun dun dun. Zhao Fang Gang thought he saw a ghost when it was Tu Xiao Ning barely escaping his sight. Meanwhile the real "threat"is Rao Jing. She might have picked up our couple is a couple from a sleeve-rolling moment.
Ji Yu Heng has a clay doll of Tu Xiao Ning in her high school uniform. There's a note: "Your smile is a ray of sunshine. I hope in the future we can have more stories." She has no idea the present is meant for her and is jealous.
Secondary couples. #2: Rao Jing has a new boyfriend. #3 Ling Wei Yi reconciles with her ex.
Tang Yu Hui, the new/old colleague, and an old unworthy adversary 🙄
Epilogue: "Unrequited/Unattainable Love?" The doll was once a girl Ji Yu Heng could not attain. Not anymore. He had made this as her birthday present.

[Ep11] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Our couple are idiots in jealousy and are punished by drama gods. Ji Yu Heng chokes on dead, salty salmon and Tu Xiao Ning's head bonks the pillar.
Ji Yu Heng's designated driver can only be Tu Xiao Ning. He ditches Unworthy Adversary and his car in the overpriced parking lot to take the subway with Tu Xiao Ning. It's a waste of money, but it's better than Tu Xiao Ning being angry. (She does try not to be mad, but it's hard).
Ji Yu Heng doesn't have an ideal type. Everything about Tu Xiao Ning is his ideal.
Ji Yu Heng makes red date soup because Tu Xiao Ning is on her period. I'm sad that she told him to leave it at the door.
Tu Xiao Ning writes a new diary entry onto her Weibo: "Should I work hard to be your ideal type?" Ji Yu Heng replies TO HIMSELF, "You already are." What's stopping you, bro!
Epilogue: "His Ideal Type." Miss Unworthy Adversary asks Ji Yu Heng for his ideal type. Lady, it ain't you.

[Ep12] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Secondary CPs. 3rd couple (Ling Wei Yi and Qi Yu) are making out now. What are they going to do for 20 episodes then.
Taking the advice from her bestie, Tu Xiao Ning stamps on the man who's hers. She kisses Ji Yu Heng on the cheek. That's not enough for him. They kiss on the lips...and then they're on the rooftop..... Hey, at least he clarifies there's nothing between him and Unworthy Adversary.
Tu Xiao Ning and Ji Yu Heng are finally sleeping together on the bed!! Or not....
Epilogue: "Sweet-Happiness Is Woven Into the Everyday Moments of Life." Ji Yu Heng had actually slept in a tent on the balcony for the night. WHAT! That's too much. Sir, that's totally on you for overdoing it. But I get it, I get it, I get it. She was so tired that she fell asleep on the desk when she could have been in the bed.

I like this trio.

[Ep13] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Tu Xiao Ning has a cold, but she's warm from the orange remedy Ji Yu Heng prepared. A little less salt next time, please.
Rao Jing is alone, but Zhao Fang Gang sends her a Happy New Year message. He's the first one.
Tu Xiao Ning and Ji Yu Heng are wearing exhibitionist trench coats.
Ji Yu Heng confesses! Tu Xiao Ning was right all along. Every time she felt the moment, he backed out because he wasn't confident. He planned for a cellist, but a violinist beat him. He had a ring in the cake, but another couple called it tacky. He wanted to say it on the street, but the timing was wrong.
Tu Xiao Ning casually remarks that if it was love at first sight back in high school and he held back for 10 years, that would be kind of scary.
Epilogue: "'Happy New Year' That Took 10 Years." It's not Ji Yu Heng's first time saying HNY to Tu Xiao Ning.

[Ep14] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

The kiss at night gave Ji Yu Heng some bra-blems.
Ji Yu Heng misses Tu Xiao Ning the moment she tells him she'll be gone for 5 days. Yeesh, lol.
It cannot be just me. Ji Yu Heng keeps showing Tu Xiao Ning his skin. Latent desires not latent
Tu Xiao Ning receives a delivery from Ji Yu Heng. It has everything she needs and more just not Ji Yu Heng. I don't know how these flash-deliveries work. Would someone else have to write that note for Ji Yu Heng? The poor delivery man, lol.
Tu Xiao Ning is losing her client to Tang Yu Hui. And hey, Tu Xiao Ning technically has connections too: Ji Yu Heng and her rich friend, Ling Wei Yi.
Just when Tu Xiao Ning misses Ji Yu Heng, he's here! Tears roll down. He said he bought the tickets after realizing he really missed her after their video call.
We never outgrow jealousy. Mom Tu is jealous that Dad Tu is dancing with another woman.
Ji Yu Heng offers to be Tu Xiao Ning's punching bag, but her heart wouldn't allow him to be hurt. He makes her touch his chest to show how hard he is. How else do I say this.
Epilogue: "Accompanying You." He lied. Ji Yu Heng booked a hotel the night she told him about the business trip for 5 days (even though he only managed to show up on the weekend). Then after she's asleep, he sneaks back up to his tent. Someone is bringing a match to burn the tent, right? I'll meet you there.

[Ep15] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Zhao Fang Gang meets Rao Jing's parents. His fate with ghosts...lol.
Tu Xiao Ning persuades the client, Boss Yang, to sign with her. He's like, "I don't know how you fish, but that hook is well made." He's hooked.
Tu Xiao Ning and Ji Yu Heng celebrate with more than just kisses. *Thump Thump* Nevermind. That's a *grumble grumble*. Tu Xiao Ning is hungry.
The baby-crying sound effect is a premonition. It happened when the moms told our couple to come home faster and rest earlier. Our couple is more efficient than that. Tu Xiao Ning sneaks into Ji Yu Heng's room in the middle of the night. Water isn't just dripping. It's spilling.
Epilogue: "Exclusive Comfort". Tu Xiao Ning asked if Ji Yu Heng is the emotionally stable partner, providing valuable emotional support anytime and anywhere. She doesn't realize it, but to him, she's the emotionally stable partner.

[Ep16] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Ji Yu Heng gave Tu Xiao Ning hickeys. Tu Xiao Ning gave Ji Yu Heng...motion sickness...? Ji Yu Heng teases her, "I'm wondering if it's because I was overworked last night." Lol. But did he have motion sickness when he got here too?
Secret taxi ride. I wish there was a comment from the taxi driver, lol. It's like they're having an affair.
So daring now. Ji Yu Heng keeps teasing and secretly grazing Tu Xiao Ning's hand with everyone there. The timing for the second touch is sweet. A colleague asked if he went on the trip for that Tang girl. Of course not. He touches Tu Xiao Ning = I went for you.
Zhao Fang Gang sweetens Rao Jing's period days.
At the parking lot, our sweet, sweet handholding couple (why not just go home!) are deers caught in the headlights – Qi Yu's headlights.
It's Chinese New Year. Tu Xiao Ning and Ji Yu Heng are celebrating it with family. Meanwhile Zhao Fang Gang (in ZFG style =) considerately barges into Rao Jing's place, knowing she has no one else to celebrate it with. Zhao Fang Gang is consistent! He did that for Ji Yu Heng too, haha.
Epilogue: "The Fireworks That Haven't Been Released." In high school, Ji Yu Heng brought fireworks to Tu Xiao Ning's condo, hoping to release them with her, but Dad Tu got in the way.

[Ep17] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Skip the first 7 minutes and free yourself from 3CP boredom.
I know why ghosts only haunt Zhao Fang Gang. It's because Zhao Fang Gang is way too superstitious and makes Rao Jing go "Pei Pei Pei" because she threatened to kill him. Who told him to tell her to sell her bags.
Tu Xiao Ning thinks her hickey is gone. Think again. Ji Yu Heng is thirsty just looking at her neck, and she's not completely innocent in flashing her cervical curve.
There's another neck-craver. Zhao Fang Gang blushes at the sight of Rao Jing's neck. (He had stayed till the morning to clean up, and then also made breakfast. Aw.)
Our unworthy adversary, Tang Yu Hui is actually dealing tangible harm to Tu Xiao Ning's career.
Epilogue: "Her Nameless Hero". Ji Yu Heng donated his homework for Tu Xiao Ning to copy. Is it implied that he knew she needed to copy and so he wrote down several solutions?

[Ep18] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Rao Jing – the drama manifestation of us, the audience – makes Tu Xiao Ning stand beside Ji Yu Heng for the group picture.
Mom Ji is not okay. She only has a few months to live.
Ji Yu Heng is emotionally and physically exhausted. He needs to tightly hug Tu Xiao Ning to recharge.
Zhao Fang Gang and his freebies that no one wants. He.tells Rao Jing he got her coffee because it's a BOGO, but turns away as if afraid she'd catch him lying. Rao Jing's like, "Can you not use your nape nook to speak to me?" She rejects it, and lectures him for giving Tu Xiao Ning a client. She understands Tu Xiao Ning so well!!! It'll make her feel worthless. Tu Xiao Ning wants to earn it, not be handed a freebie.
Zhao Fang Gang wants the warmth Rao Jing gives Tu Xiao Ning. When she doesn't hear him, he actually repeats it for her. Flustered, she's like "Aren't you afraid of. messing with fire?"
Ji Yu Heng doesn't visit his mother because he refuses to accept her death. Instead, he keeps himself busy, and watches from afar after visiting hours.
Ji Yu Heng and Tu Xiao Ning both don't understand each other in this episode. She rejected Zhao Fang Gang's client because she wants to prove herself. He refuses to see his mother because he can't face her death.
Epilogue: "Vulnerable Moments". Ji Yu Heng stood outside the door, unable to go home. He needs to remind himself to not bring his emotions to Tu Xiao Ning. If you can't let go of your emotions at home with your spouse, where else can you do it T_T.

[Ep19] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Tu Xiao Ning is almost busted as Ji Yu Heng's "wife" when her colleagues visit Mom Ji at the hospital. Rao Jing confirms our couple is an item (and "married")
Rao Jing is the type to calculate if the relationship is a burden. Tu Xiao Ning asks her that if she removes all the "load" in a relationship, can we find happiness that way? Enlightened, Rao Jin stares at Zhao Fang Gang, wondering if he's a burden. LOL. If anything, he's the sweetest burden.
In high school, Ji Yu Heng had failed gaokao because his father died around that time. Somehow he regained the will to study. Ohhhhh, this is why he's older but in the same year.
Tu Xiao Ning both pressures and comforts Ji Yu Heng to visit Mom Ji in case it's her last moments. She tells him he's no longer alone in facing death. He has her now.
Tu Xiao Ning and Ji Yu Heng are adults who have mouths. Can you believe it! They talk and resolve their problems. There's also good news that the new medication is suitable for Mom Ji. It'll just cost a fortune. Time to cut our own hair. No money for barbers.
Zhao Fang Gang asks Rao Jing on a date and she asks him if he wants a sham marriage (in particular, she's teasing him if he's gay and wants to marry her to hide it).
Epilogue: "She Is the Dazzling Light". Ji Yu Heng was ostracized because of his late father's rumours. No one wants to be his partner for Secret-Garden-sit-ups during gym class. Only Tu Xiao Ning volunteers. Is she getting butterflies? Her smile ~

My gosh, they look exactly like 35 pretending to be 18. xD It's okay, I'm forgiving.

[Ep20] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Ji Yu Heng and Mother Ji finally open up after losing their father/husband. Ten years late is better than never!
Ji Yu Heng's father committed suicide to prove that he was innocent....... He worked at the bank and was accused of embezzlement by a client who took a loan and absconded. This is why Ji Yu Heng works at the anti-fraud department to tighten the bank's regulations to prevent cases like his father's.
That day on the roof, Tu Xiao Ning wasn't completely wrong that Ji Yu Heng wanted to jump. Currently, Ji Yu Heng tells her that those days were the toughest. He wanted to die, but he couldn't die. Tu Xiao Ning had saved him. She became his light. It's 10 years late, but he thanks her. Tu Xiao Ning jokes that she already received his thanks = 以身相許 = devoting his life and body to her and became her husband.
Epilogue: "One Person's Memories". Ji Yu Heng made a clay sculpture of him carrying the red umbrella for Tu Xiao Ning, but does she remember she gave him that umbrella?

[Ep21] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Zhao Fang Gang refuses Rao Jing's money because he wants to keep a relationship with her even as her loaner. Nope, not desperate.
Mom Ji dies. Nooooooooo! This death was so sudden T___T. Ji Yu Heng didn't get to see her!!
Zhao Fang Gang buys a bag for Rao Jing. Awww. He knows the way into his ~~client~~ Rao Jing's heart! And he's actually more thoughtful than you think! He knows Rao Jing is reminded of the pain of losing her parents. He wanted to cheer her up.
Rao Jing cannot accept Zhao Fang Gang's feelings. If he only wanted to play around, she can flirt too, but since he's guanine, she cannot play with his feelings.
Ji Yu Heng finally cries after eating Tu Xiao Ning's dumplings. They're Mom Ji's recipe. This is the moment he actually breaks. He was controlling himself the whole time.
Ji Yu Heng takes time off work. He's recovering from grief bit by bit. He smiles as he watches Tu Xiao Ning's parents dance. I guess he still has parents :( He also releases Tu Xiao Ning's clay sculpture from the box.
Epilogue: "The World's Tastiest Dumplings". Tu Xiao Ning video-recorded Mom Ji's recipe.

[Ep22] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Tu Xiao Ning pouts for Ji Yu Heng to help her meet a client. She's actually fine on her own, but she wants to help him overcome his grief.
Zhao Fang Gang ignores Rao Jing. Deserved, lol. He almost hugs her after their successful bidding, but quickly hits the brake before committing the error, lol. However, he hasn't given up!!

I love his "看上你, 算嗎?"! (I fancy you, does that count?)

Group picture ~ Ji Yu Heng and Tu Xiao Ning tilt their heads towards each other. They've come a long way since their wedding ID, haha.
Epilogue: "Old Times & New Memories". New Memories = Ji Yu Heng and Tu Xiao Ning make an album together, attaching their wedding registration picture. Old Times = Ji Yu Heng picked up her bunny eraser during gaokao and kept it till now.

[Ep23] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

A drunk Rao Jing tells Zhao Fang Gang she's afraid of breaking up with him before even starting. She doesn't want to lose someone she can always bicker with. But she also won't let him leave her for the night ~
Rao Jing kisses Zhao Fang Gang! It was romantic for like 0.01 seconds. She actually talked on his lips, hahaha. Those buttons on his dress-shirt though is the bane of her/his existence. She passes out before conquering them.
No more dress-shirts for Zhao Fang Gang the next day. HAHAHA.
Zhao Fang Gang wanted to walk away from the gossip at the parking lot, but Rao Jing pulls him in. Rao Jing also invites him over to fix whatever-thing that needs fixing in her home. He plays hard to get, but we all know he's too easy, lol.
Tang Yu Hui catches Tu Xiao Ning and Ji Yu Heng hugging in the car. Thankfully, she thinks she's smart, and rather than tattling, she wants to prove she's the better fit for Ji Yu Heng and helps him with his client.
Ji Yu Heng goes on a business trip with Tang Yu Hui, but buys a plane ticket for Tu Xiao Ning too! He ain't going on a business trip alone with Tang Yu Hui. He won't even sit next to her. Their seats are separated by an aisle, lol.
Epilogue: "The Girl Who Climbed Over the Wall in the Morning". Ji Yu Heng dismisses Tu Xiao Ning's tardiness. Who was the guy in Ep1 who said he'll be stricter when it comes to Tu Xiao Ning? :) As a token of gratitude, Xiao Ning gives Ji Yu Heng her favourite source of lecithin (I'm guessing that's a preserved egg pastry, high in lecithin alright, and even higher in lipids).

No more dress shirts! xD

Tu Xiao Ning's reaction to the surprise peck is so cute. She just plops on the bed.

Ji Yu Heng won't sit with Tang, and is even staring at Tu Xiao Ning ~

[Ep24] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Ji Yu Heng has very selective memories. He only remembers events with Tu Xiao Ning and nothing about Tang.
Ji Yu Heng takes Tu Xiao Ning around his university so that his school days won't feel as lonely. Duuuude. Were you emo.
Ji Yu Heng still hasn't told Tu Xiao Ning that she was/is his "unattainable"! Cluelessly, Tu Xiao Ning warns him that even if his "unattainable" is back, she isn't letting him go.
Zhao Fang Gang and Rao Jing are official. He's wearing a shirt with buttons but it's all unbuttoned. Haha. Before she takes him in bed, he needed to confirm this wasn't a fling, aw.
The "cliffhanger": Will Tang Yu Hui expose our couple's relationship or will Tu Xiao Ning help Ji Yu Heng successfully be promoted by meeting the mysterious wife?
Epilogue: "Missed the Last Time". Ji Yu Heng dressed like a peacock (according to friend) because he thought Tu Xiao Ning was visiting. Then he mistook the high ponytail for her and saved her from a falling box. His face fell too at the sight of her face.

[Ep25] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Ji Yu Heng successfully signed with the client thanks to Tu Xiao Ning making the meeting happen. It's because the mysterious wife empathized with Tu Xiao Ning's secret relationship.
Rao Jing is caught dating just from her blissful expression. She describes her boyfriend with grandiose metaphors (think Brad Pitt and Tom Cruise level). Zhao Fang Gang texts Rao Jing if she has another secret boyfriend. Then she compliments him for real: he has a good self-awareness. Zhao Fang Gang transforms his happiness into singing: "Steal, Steal, Stealing my heart!" What kind of compliment was that tho, lol.
An employee retreat ~ Ji Yu Heng stealthily slides his key card to Tu Xiao Ning.
Rao Jing is pregnant! Congra– She ain't the least bit happy and glares at the sperm that did this to her.
At Tu Xiao Ning's birthday party, Tang Yu Hui wants to make an announcement, but first she sings??????...a love song...to Ji Yu Heng????.
Epilogue: "The Surprise at the Spring Trip". That's it?

[Ep26] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Tu Xiao Ning walks into Ji Yu Heng and Tang Yu Hui's conversation because the latter kept bringing her up. I am proud! I thought TXN was going to walk away.
Ji Yu Heng's rejection + confession: "Today I need to clarify one (three) thing(s). The relationship between Tu Xiao Ning and I, 'to take advantage of a weakness', and 'to cater to someone's preference', was never her. It was me. Tu Xiao Ning is someone I fell in love with at first sight."
It's Ji Yu Heng's first time celebrating Tu Xiao Ning's birthday and he does it with a teddy-bear-cake (reference: Ep1). Her wish is to celebrate it every year with him.
Ji Yu Heng's birthday present to Tu Xiao Ning is a watch too.
Tang Yu Hui recognizes her feelings for Ji Yu Heng aren't love, but obsession. Awwww, I finally feel something for you, girl! This matches your character so much more. Rao Jing feels for her. Rao Jing does like self-awareness, lol. The next day, Tang Yu Hui submits her resignation letter to Ji Yu Heng. He realizes that they're not too different. They both had an "unattainable" and did whatever they could to cater to the person they love. It's just that Ji Yu Heng is more fortunate. Ok, I like Show's self-awareness too.
Relationships are going public – not our main CP even though they're almost exposed. There's a cheating man in Division 2, and this cheating man's wife just had to drag down Rao Jing (accused of being the cheating woman). Enraged, Zhao Fang Gang announces he's her boyfriend, and now one of them has to be transferred. Zhao Fang Gang will quit instead. He doesn't want Rao Jing to start over because he knows how hard it was for her.
Rao Jing tells Zhao Fang Gang that she's pregnant. She was considering abortion, but after his brave outburst and tender considerateness, will she change her mind? I love how she told TXN more, lol. Just one look between the girls is enough ~ ~ and then Tu Xiao Ning gave her a couple more looks, hahaha. Our girls are all eyes and body language xD
Epilogue: "Hearts Linked as One". Ji Yu Heng measures Tu Xiao Ning's wrist diameter at night.

[Ep27] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Rao Jing tells Zhao Fang Gang about her pregnancy. She doesn't want that to be the reason he's with her, but after today she realizes he's a man she can trust. He is now her choice, and she gives him his choice. His choice: give her everything. Awwww. Zhao Fang Gang is an angel. Where is this bank. I want to work here.
Tu Xiao Ning and Ji Yu Heng's relationship is exposed. Neither of them want the other to give up their career. It's a she-leaves-but-he-leaves-but-actually-neither-leaves scenario. Ji Yu Heng will still be a manager, but transferred to a city 2 hours away.
Commander Rao Jing is seat-ordering Zhao Fang Gang, but that's not why he's pouting. Everyone – Tu Xiao Ning, Ji Yu Heng and Rao Jing – concealed the relationship from him. I love the apple sharing and the big smiles.
Epilogue: "Early Morning and Coffee Aroma With You". We're running low on epilogues, aren't we? xD

[Ep28] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Coffee epilogue was for this ep. Everything is coffee related.
At the mention of coffee, Ji Yu Heng thinks of Tu Xiao Ning and orders her dozens of coffee for her to share with her colleagues, prompting a colleague to complain how stingy Zhao Fang Gang is who only buys food for Rao Jing, lol.
Rao Jing is promoted as the new manager – a temporary one. Tu Xiao Ning is her trusty side-kick, taking on interns and aspiring to increase their division revenue so that Rao Jing's promotion is secured.
Tu Xiao Ning is suddenly very attractive. Ji Yu Heng, who's two hours away, is randomly here to fend off her suitor. In the guise of taking the suitor's coffee, Ji Yu Heng shows off his couple items.
Ji Yu Heng's random appearance is to give Tu Xiao Ning a car. He even prepared everything inside including the tissues. Why can't humans like this exist!
Rao Jing complains about Zhao Fang Gang, but all I hear is ZFG's sweetness xD. He won't even argue with her for her sake, which angers her more, haha. She begs Tu Xiao Ning (who has orders from Zhao Fang Gang) to at least let her have her coffee.
Zhao Fang Gang concedes and goes "clubbing" with Rao Jing, but he ends up falling asleep. She sweetly smiles at him and wakes him up to go home. Is she thinking what I'm thinking? How tired is Zhao Fang Gang that he can sleep in this deafening environment? She does realize how tired he is, aw. She also apologizes that she's taking out her stress on him when he's also adjusting. He's taking on all the chores and caring for her. When he has overtime, he waits until she's asleep to work.
Epilogue: "Present". Ji Yu Heng bought a car for Tu Xiao Ning to temporarily shield her from the rain and wind since he can't be at her side while the rain is pouring on him!

[Ep29] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

It's been half a year, and Ji Yu Heng transfers back. He's the director of the new branch, and he recruited Zhao Fang Gang. Now they're competing with Rao Jing and Tu Xiao Ning for the same client. I quite like Show for making it easy for our couples to balance being lovers and healthy competitors.
3CP: Break up or not, whatever.
Epilogue: "Hints About the Marriage Proposal" Tu Xiao Ning wants her proposal. She's practically asking for it. Ji Yu Heng has a knowing smile ~

[Ep30] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Tu Xiao Ning knows the spy: Li Xiang (the older colleague). He's been updating Ji Yu Heng about her, allowing him to one-up her pursuer – yes, another pursuer.
Ji Yu Heng skips lunch because Tu Xiao Ning is busy with the client/pursuer. Zhao Fang Gang nags at him to eat, though and even checks his biceps, asking if he lost weight. ZFG is JYH's work wife xD
Epilogue: "The Daily Life of Our 'Mr. and Mrs. Smith'". Tu Xiao Ning fell asleep in the study room. When she wakes up, she playfully accuses Ji Yu Heng of peeking at her documents. She admits though, it's only work-related that he takes her advantage, otherwise she's the one exploiting him. He likes that. To be taken advantage of by her is his happiness. She jokingly wishes him 福如東海, a birthday saying = "May your happiness be as immense as the East Sea". He replies with the follow up birthday wish: 壽比南山 = "May you live as long as the Zhongnan Mountains".

[Ep31] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

The client erupts as a sexual predator after Tu Xiao Ning refuses to collude with him. Ji Yu Heng is her timely hero.
We're back at the roof. Third time's the charm and Tu Xiao Ning finally learns what we've known for 30 eps (but at least we know them in chronological order now):

The first time he saw her was at the water fountain. His heart skipped a beat.
He didn't fall from the roof, but he sure fell for her and down the marriage-grave he goes.
After she got a boyfriend, he went to study abroad, but he would still follow her on Weibo.
The only reason he bought a ticket back was because he learned she was single. Ok. There was no luck in all of this. Everything took effort. He didn't immediately look for her because she said she needed time. Then he made his move when she was actively searching for a partner.
The match-making meeting was his plan too. The lights! The hearts! I thought it was a romcom no-logic thing to make the scene prettier, but He staged all that. I'm very sorry. This is more creepy than it is sweet. LOL.

What Tu Xiao Ning thought was "Reunited at last" is actually "A plan long laid". Wei Zhe Ming hinted at this line with his Weibo update during the premiere.
The "long laid plan" is too long. Ji Yu Heng can't wait a second more. He had plans for a grand proposal, but here he is, proposing; no flowers, no lights, just him and her, and a ring. Tu Xiao Ning sniffles. "Hurry up and put it on." (I like the coffee-coloured matching clothes now. She loves coffee and now he's her long-term daily addiction)
Our "married" couple is finally married. I was a little worried they were going to be late because of the pictures again.
Weibo Update: Ji Yu Heng and Tu Xiao Ning married on the day the episode broadcasted: August 16th, 2024.
Mother and Father Tu misunderstand that our couple divorced. Haha. (I like the little moment where Ji Yu Heng whispered to Tu Xiao Ning that he'll buy her a new bouquet because Mom Tu accidentally took hers.)
Epilogue: "Her Unrivalled Hero". It's not Ji Yu Heng's first time saving Tu Xiao Ning from her bullies (even though she doesn't actually have fear of them).

Coffee clothes ^^

[Ep32] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

3CP's breakup is extended....Oi. [Ends at 12min]
Zhao Fang Gang is promoted, but Rao Jing sure knows how to sour his mood. She says Ji Yu Heng promoted him out of convenience so that he can take his vacation. Zhao Fang Gang retaliates by canceling her boba order. Oh no he didn't! For her boba, Rao Jing will pour hot pot soup over her husband.
Ji Yu Heng proposes to Tu Xiao Ning. Dayum. How many times does this guy need to confess and propose. There's the cat, the teddy-bear, and the umbrella. I quite like the wall of pictures. They're just places, and now he can fill them in with her. This proposal is like a secret wedding belonging only to Ji Yu Heng and Tu Xiao Ning.
Our pregnant Rao Jing is very emotional (and her snots are very loud, whew xD). She brought Zhao Fang Gang to pay respect to her parents, who will be grandparents, aw.
Time for wedding pictures. Rao Jing and Zhao Fang Gang already took theirs behind the scenes, booo. Tu Xiao Ning is tired just standing when Ji Yu Heng is fine, but he's been lifting her the whole time. Ji Yu Heng replies, "I was always fit. (Don't you know?)"
Rao Jing and Zhao Fang Gang are in tears because they feel fetal movements for the first time.
3CP reunite?!?!? And it's a cliffhanger, HA. Ya, just hang there forever.
One year later, Ji Yu Heng and Tu Xiao Ning celebrate their anniversary. It's a simple celebration as they want their days to be: simple, happy, and with each other.

[Extra] [Jump to: Top | Comments]

Highschool. Ji Yu Heng sat at Tu Xiao Ning's desk for an exam. He knew 蝉時雨 is a song name and adds the correct accents. Not many know that it's a Japanese song by w-inds called "Semishigure" which likens cicadas (semi) to a drizzling rain (shigure). That's why Ji Yu Heng's WeChat picture is a cicada!!! If anyone is rewatching, maybe pay attention to the high school epilogues if there are cicada sounds. She writes to him, introducing herself, and asking for his name. He reads it the next day, and remembers the girl by the fountain. He writes his name, but erases it after the thunder roars. Why! The next day(s), Ji Yu Heng runs hard and even rigs the race to impress Tu Xiao Ning.

I'm loving the connection with the rain, the cicada, turning sad thoughts into happy thoughts, and the conversation in Ep2 that rain can be like fireworks too.
In the Weibo that "Tu Xiao Ning" uploaded (comment link), the song she chose, "Thanks", is also from w-ind.

Post wedding-passport-ID. Ji Yu Heng buys Tu Xiao Ning gold, but since she keeps calling him "Manager Ji" the salesperson misunderstands that Tu Xiao Ning is a mistress. She kisses him on the cheek to apologize to her laogong. She isn't used to calling him her hubby, but is already thinking of passing down the gold set. Naughty Ji Yu Heng asks how she's going to pass it down. Tutting. Dirty thoughts, sir, lol. But he doesn't want her to give them away because not even his children can have what he gives his wife. This stuff is right up my alley, hahaha. I love it.

Pre-wedding-shoot. Tu Xiao Ning is tired from trying on so many dresses. Ji Yu Heng hugs her to give her a recharge.

Night before the wedding. Tu Xiao Ning misses Ji Yu Heng dearly when they're just separated for one night before the wedding. He tells her to go to her balcony because he's already at her condo! He misses her more, OMG. This reminds me of the epilogue where he couldn't get her down for fireworks. Every regret is refreshed with happy memories.

Wedding. Ji Yu Heng isn't drinking on their happy day because they're planning for pregnancy.

Rao Jing and Zhao Fang Gang's wedding-passport-ID. Zhao Fang Gang asks the photographer to photoshop Rao Jing so that she's skinnier and him so that he's fatter. Awww. Drama cut out a part still. You can find the BTS link in this comment that I posted before watching this Extra. Rao Jing also commented that his face looks like a "pig hip". He laughs it off that it's an auspicious face-shape, while she's still having fun saying his face looks delicious. He's too sweet for taking all the insults.

5 years later. Zhao Fang Gang and Rao Jing's son is called Zhao Xiao Shuai (Zhao Little Handsome). Rao Jing does like her xiao shuai ge (young handsome men), haha. Poor kid has to walk on his own while Rao Jing is piggybacked by her husband. Haha. No wonder Ji Yu Heng and Zhao Fang Gang can hit it off. They love their wife more than their children.

Zhao Xiao Shuai's presents. Rao Jing lectures her son for wanting to buy a present. They had a rule of one present per month. Zhao Fang Gang gives him a man-to-man talk: Didn't you promise not to make mommy angry and so what should you do? Smart kiddo is like, "Ask for a present next month." To reward the kiddo for realizing his mistake, Zhao Fang Gang breaks the rule and buys him a present. LOL. I feel for Rao Jing.

In the Weibo that "Rao Jing" uploaded (comment link), Rao Jing finds the shark toys. Now she'll show the 'men' who's the real shark. xD.

Tu Xiao Ning KOs Ji Yu Heng at work.

Rao Jing is promoted. Tu Xiao Ning is sad that she's leaving the department, but happy news #2: Tu Xiao Ning is now the manager. She jokes that she can be promoted again and be on par with Ji Yu Heng. She doesn't actually think it's possible, but he believes in her. He witnessed her work her way up against the odds.

Remarks

[First Impression (Ep1-4)] I love the pacing. Proposals, marriage, cohabitation – you name it – all happen in 4 episodes. Well, almost. To top it off, they happen unpredictably. There are usually signs that give away the upcoming trope – not this one.

I like FL's personality. She's not strong, but she has grit, resilience and tenacity in the face of adversity. A little bit pessimistic and a little bit optimistic.

This "fake marriage" is different. They're genuinely considering each other as marriage prospects. In the name of marriage, they are dating with all the fun tropes.

There is office politics. I actually look forward to the plot revolving around Rao Jing, whether it's work or romance.

Third couple's 3ML....can he fix my image of him as a permanent jerk ex-boyfriend?

[Cast&Crew]

Same screenwriter team as I May Love You and Falling Into You
A Ming Lan reunion: FL and the dad. He was a terrible dad to Ru Lan and now he can make it up here, awww.
A wacky detail. The actor, Sha Yi, is FL's mother's husband in real life. Here's the whack: Sha Yi and Zhang Jia Ning acted as a couple in an old drama, hahaha. Mother and daughter shared the same man.

[Ending] Happy.

[A Highlight]

Main CP: It's the waves in Ep8 for me. He could have kissed her, but he lifted her instead.
2nd CP: When Zhao Fang Gang quit wearing buttons the next day, haha.

[Review & Rating]

Recommendations

Genre List: CEO Romances

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August 1, 2024

You Are My Secret | Recap and Review

Cast

Mini Recaps

Remarks

Recommendations

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