honestly, i only watched this because i saw on tiktok that *that* guy from falling into your smile was the main lead (i didn't know his name prior to this show, only his dimples xD), i didn't have many expectations - mostly, due to the romance (i am aromantic, which, often makes me unable to love romcoms, because it makes me cringe, and remind me of the things i will never be able to feel) but almost immediately, i knew that it wouldn't be the case for this show.

this show was extremely cliché, i will say that - and i did encounter second-hand embarrassment every now and then - but not in the 'i want to throw my ipad across the room' instead it was bearable - and even made sense at times. because this is about youth, it's about the first experiences and those aren't always glorious. i loved the awkwardness and the realness of the show, i loved all the characters and the ways they completed each other. normally, i never like both the main and second lead couples an equal amount - i'll ALWAYS favor one of them, and yet, i loved everyone the same in this show.

another thing i loved was that there weren't any unnecessary miscommunications, even when that girl went after zhang lurang, i loved how instead of siding with the "wrong" side (mainly, for unnecessary drama, that can drag the show out) instead he believed in zai, and even played along with her, whenever the other girl tried to make a move. and as they grew they supported each other in every way they could.

thank you for giving us a healthy show, with a healthy relationship that contained beautiful growth. as well, as beautiful character development of kids finding themselves in the midst of this hectic world.

definitely rewatching this later.