Imo This drama played in two parts: the first 7 episodes and the remaining 18 starting from episode 8.
The first part for me were just sooo boring I almost dropped it ngl. Plus I just kept wondering WHY?? Like WTF? Why would they choose a young actress that looked like she was 8 to play the part of someone who's 14. Whatever kind of messed up choice is that? So not to mention how uninteresting the first few episodes were, I was also pretty uncomfortable watching young Sang Zhi looking like she's 6 interact and be smitten with an already adult Duan.
Then came the second part at episode 8 and it couldn't come fast enough. From there the pace picked up pretty nicely. Even if it was slow burn it became enjoyable and entertaining. Because the chemistry between the leads were so great. And to my surprise considering a few other reviews I read, I thought SZ were really mature throughout the whole show even in the beginning. And I loved how naturally the relationship of SZ and DJX evolved. I mean it wasn't just an out of the blue moment that lead to the two of them getting together. It was very well built up and brought up. I loved SY as a character too and the whole cast just did amazing.
Overall I enjoyed watching this drama. But I have to say it's unlikely I'll watch it again and if I ever do I'll definitely start from episode 8. If not for the first part I would've gladly given this show a 9 or a 10 but I guess a decent 8 will just have to do.