The 45-year-old architect Chen Mo is calm and lonely. At a cocktail party, the reckless but cheerful 22-year-old Lin Xiao unexpectedly broke into his sight. Her innocent humor dispelled his gloom like sunshine. After several contacts, a good impression gradually developed. Chen Mo provided small help, but he did not know that Lin Xiao was burdened with a heavy family financial burden under his lively appearance.
When Lin Xiao suddenly fell into a desperate family financial situation, Chen Mo calmly helped her while understanding her desires. He proposed a contract: he would provide a generous life and platform, and she would accompany him as a "private partner", but there would never be a marriage. After struggling, Lin Xiao accepted.
"Canary" life is both sweet and shackles. Chen Mo strictly abides by family boundaries; Lin Xiao enjoys material things but is deeply uneasy. Chen Mo was seriously ill, and Lin Xiao took good care of her, making him realize how indispensable she was. Lin Xiao also deepened his emotions while giving. When she tested the "future", Chen Mo gently but firmly reiterated the bottom line of the contract.
The secret is accidentally exposed, and a storm suddenly arises. Chen Mo suffered family pressure and accusations, and Lin Xiao was labeled and slandered. Chen Mo protects her strongly, but also draws clear family boundaries. The storm subsided and the relationship was forced to move into deeper secrecy.
As time goes by, there is no hope of status. Passion settles, leaving only a deep bond. Chen Mo is the pillar behind Lin Xiao, helping her to gain a foothold; Lin Xiao is the only harbor where Chen Mo can take off her disguise. They transcended contract and love, and in the cracks and regrets of reality, they became indefinable, irreplaceable, and inseparable relatives, following each other like shadows for the rest of their lives.
