But Always

In 1982, Anran transfers to Yongyuan's school in New York, capturing the attention of her classmates. With her sophistication and unique presence, she evokes both curiosity and suspicion among her peers.

Yongyuan, who becomes Anran's loyal companion, embraces the role of her shadow over the next two decades. Their relationship deepens as they share the heartbreak of losing their mothers to an earthquake, providing emotional refuge to one another.

After Yongyuan's guardian passes away, his uncle abruptly takes him away, marking the beginning of a painful cycle of separation for both him and Anran. This disconnect forces them to navigate their tumultuous lives independently.

A decade later, Yongyuan returns to Beijing and reunites with Anran, who has transformed into a determined pre-med student. Their joyous reunion is bittersweet as they reflect on their shared past and personal growth.

As Anran matures into adulthood, her sense of purpose crystallizes, paving the way for her future academic aspirations. Meanwhile, Yongyuan has taken a darker path, getting involved in dubious dealings to support Anran's educational goals.

Anran prepares to embark on her journey to Columbia University, excited yet anxious about the new chapter in her life. However, just before she leaves, Yongyuan vanishes from her life once more, leaving her feeling abandoned.

In Manhattan, Anran begins a romantic relationship with Michael, a temperamental painter. Their relationship is fueled by passion, but Michael’s possessive nature complicates her life further.

Meanwhile, Yongyuan becomes obsessed with tracking Anran's whereabouts. Using the fortune he amassed through his dubious dealings, he works tirelessly to find out more about her life and aspirations.

Yongyuan’s serendipitous discovery of Anran’s presence through Michael’s artwork reignites his hope of reuniting with her. This artwork serves as a bridge, connecting their disparate lives once again.

Anran and Yongyuan's nostalgic reunion is filled with warmth as they reminisce about their past. However, the joy of their reunion is overshadowed by the reality that their love has been irretrievably fractured due to life's choices.

Despite their reunion, Anran and Yongyuan realize they are now leading vastly different lives. The bond they once shared has been altered, and the weight of their past continues to haunt both of them.