This is the best C-drama in the rom-com realm of 2022 so far (I was thinking this year was so dry up until this point). The story, the production, the richness of characters, wow. Now to explain my title: the most unexpected thing about this drama was the power of mentorship (especially female mentorship in a man's world). You can see it in Ms.Shi's company where her M:F ratio is amazing and she offers so much guidance.
On the story: it's hard to get past the first nearly third of the drama of how the FL is treated (especially by the ML) and how she just has so much bad luck. But she powers through (it was great seeing that she used her own strengths to stand on her own, but Ms.Shi actually provided her a lot of support that she needed; her friendship with her bestfriend was strong, and she's so loved by her family). We also see that ML's friends don't always agree with his ways...he doesn't get a free pass just because he's a rich boss. I really like the ML's best friend's character who is that thoughtful friend that considers others' feelings (classic nice guy but that actually gets a girl).
It was really enjoyable seeing the themes of mentorship, staying true to yourself and grounded in your beliefs, using your own strength to get back up again, and strong friendship ALL in a non-melodrama. This isn't the fluffiest drama but there are some real funny bits.
On the other parts: chemistry was on point, sounds like they tried to avoid dubbing (I love not having to hear an ultra-crispy voice), music was fitting to each situation...all good stuff. I'm so glad I finally have a favorite 2022 c-drama.