Dear Ex

San-lian's ex-husband, Zheng-yuan, passes away unexpectedly, triggering a series of events. This loss leaves San-lian in shock, and she begins to dig into the details of his life and financial arrangements.

Upon reviewing the insurance policy, San-lian discovers that Zheng-yuan changed the beneficiary to his male partner, Jay, leaving their son, Cheng-xi, out completely. This revelation intensifies her feelings of betrayal and anger towards both Zheng-yuan and Jay.

Filled with rage, San-lian confronts Jay at his apartment, demanding that he return the insurance money intended for their son. Jay, however, firmly refuses her entreaties, exacerbating the tension between them.

Cheng-xi grapples with his relationship with San-lian, feeling that her primary interest is the insurance payout rather than familial bonds. He copes with his emotional turmoil by seeking therapy sessions at school, illustrating his internal struggle.

After a heated argument where San-lian discards his father's memorabilia, Cheng-xi decides to leave home unexpectedly. He chooses to move in with Jay, significantly shifting the dynamics among the three of them.

With Cheng-xi now living with him, Jay finds himself in a new role as the caretaker of the troubled teen. Despite his initial reluctance, he begins to care for Cheng-xi, who shadows him as he navigates life as a theatre director.

The narrative utilizes flashbacks to reveal the backstory between Jay and Zheng-yuan. The audience learns of their early days as coworkers who became lovers, culminating in Zheng-yuan's decision to marry San-lian and live a double life.

San-lian persistently visits her son at Jay’s apartment in efforts to persuade him to return home. During one of these visits, she accidentally meets Jay’s mother, who is unaware of her son's true sexual orientation, which complicates matters further.

In a bid for financial gain, San-lian threatens to expose Jay's sexual orientation unless he gives her the insurance money. Ironically, she confesses his secret to Cheng-xi anyway, adding tension to the already volatile situation.

Jay becomes a victim of a brutal attack by a group of men who leave him seriously injured with a broken leg. Cheng-xi discovers Jay in this vulnerable state and hurriedly informs his mother, triggering a sense of urgency.

San-lian rushes Jay to the hospital after learning of his injury. It is during this visit that they uncover the harsh reality of Jay's financial struggles, having previously borrowed money to finance Zheng-yuan's liver transplant.

Despite his injury, Jay remains determined to perform in his theatrical debut. San-lian and Cheng-xi attend the performance, moved by Jay's talent on stage, showcasing his resilience and dedication to his art.

After the performance, an emotional moment unfolds when Jay's mother presents him with flowers, symbolizing her acceptance of him. This gesture marks a pivotal point in their relationship as Jay and his mother share a heartfelt embrace on stage.

In a surprising twist, San-lian ultimately chooses to let Jay keep the insurance money. This decision fosters a sense of reconciliation between them, with San-lian and Cheng-xi moving towards a more peaceful and understanding relationship.

As a result of the reconciliatory atmosphere, Cheng-xi decides to move back in with his mother. This decision signifies a new chapter for their family, as they strive for healing amid the complexities of their lives.