The drama is a good example of all the familiar tropes done right, steering clear of "almost" all the pitfalls. The story revolves around Tu Xuaoning and Ji Yuheng, two childhood classmates /acquaintances who reconnect again during a match-making event leading to an unexpected marriage of convenience.

While initially, I assumed it would rely on all the cliches of contract marriage and childhood connection, it breaks new ground by focusing on good character development, mature dynamics between the couples and an ML who is not "stoic "
Instead of relying on melodrama and misunderstandings, it beautifully portrays how Xiaoning and Yuheng navigate their life, both personally and professionally. I loved how their relationship was not built on grand gestures, it was just about those small, everyday moments of support and understanding.The leads shared an undeniable chemistry and their kissing scenes were so tastefully done. I liked how both the leads didn't lose their individuality and focused on their dreams and careers.

Miles Wei as Yuheng was perfect. The way he balanced both his professional responsibilities with his feelings for XioaNing was portrayed with sensitivity. (And he looked exceptional in those suits if it matters for research purposes xD)
Xiaoning started as this ambitious but uncertain FL trying to establish herself in a cut-throat corporate culture. She gradually became confident, voiced her ideas and learned to assert her opinions. While her decisions especially to hide the relationship may sometimes come off as illogical and rude but the way she struggled for her job, it just came across as a precaution and realistic.

The second couple, Rao Jing and Zhao Fanggang storyline provided an entertaining enemy-to-lovers trope to the story counterbalancing the sweet MC romance. Their banters were hilarious and their chemistry was electric. It was filled with both tension and comic relief here & there. As the plot progresses, it leads to unexpected vulnerability amidst the snarks. Their journey from disdain to affection feels believable. I was rooting for them from the start (even more than the main couple).

The supporting cast gives more reason to make this a worthy watch. I enjoyed the female friendship between all the 3 FLs. Xiaoning's bond with her best friend Wei Yi felt so genuine and supportive. Also, Ning's bond with the manager Rao Jing as mentor-mentee was refreshing to watch. Female supporting females is one of my favorite troupes.
Also, I appreciated how FL's parents treated their adult daughter as an actual "adult" for a change. They were fun, supportive and nosey but always respecting boundaries. Both their families provided such a warm and positive atmosphere.

But this wasn't without the flaws. Foremost, the third couple - Dai Yun Fan and Ling Wei Yi felt completely underdeveloped and I felt certain conflicts between them detracted from the strong storyline. To me, they felt very unnatural and chemistry was lacking.
Additionally, the character of Tang Yuhui while starting as intriguing falls into the cliche territory of obsessive character. If delusion were a person, she would have been the poster child. I wish they didn't stretch her part and use her as a positive catalyst.
Also, I felt they focused too much on Yuheng's long-standing affection and revealed it to the FL a bit late. This is where I felt the pace lagged occasionally.

Overall, this drama is a delightful and entertaining blend of romance and humor balancing personal and professional growth. While it does have cliched elements, the execution is done well. Recommended if you are looking for light and fluffy drama with good character development with no less to no drama and enjoy contract marriage & cohabitation tropes.