Episode 7 of *A Hundred Memories* opens in the present timeline, where Yeong-rye finds herself reunited with Jae-pil. However, it quickly becomes apparent that he's not her boyfriend, as some might assume, but merely a close friend. The director of this show has once again masterfully subverted expectations! Jae-pil is simply at the salon for a haircut, yet the other staff members are convinced there's a romantic spark between them, noting how Yeong-rye's eyes "glisten like honey" whenever she looks at him.
After wrapping up their workday, Yeong-rye and Jae-pil decide to grab a bite together. Throughout their meal, Jae-pil displays thoughtful gestures, carrying her bag and even wiping Yeong-rye's mouth when her dinner gets a bit messy. Their behavior screams of true companionship, yet the specter of Jong-hui lingers in their minds, casting a subtle shadow over their interaction.
Interestingly, Jae-pil has also embarked on a medical career, though that's not the sole reason for his frequent hospital visits. His father, Gi-bok, happens to be a resident there as well. In a twist of fate, Gi-bok's department store collapsed overnight, literally and figuratively, causing him to faint from the shock. During this trying period, Man-ok stepped up to the plate, going door-to-door to keep their finances afloat. Ironically, it was her admiration for Yeong-rye's mother that gave her the confidence to take on such a daunting task.
Gi-bok is clearly unwell, but Yeong-rye seems to possess a unique rapport with him, a connection that Jae-pil and Man-ok can't quite replicate. Meanwhile, Yeong-rye's mother continues to toil away at Yeongeun Market, though her children have now grown up. She remains a tireless worker, but thankfully, without any more mishaps involving carts or falls. Her friendship with Jae-pil's mother has also weathered the storm, remaining strong through thick and thin.
As for Yeong-rye, she's settled into an apartment upstairs with Ho-suk and Jung-hyun. Ho-suk has recently welcomed a daughter, Su-jin, into the world, a bundle of joy who steals everyone's heart with her adorable antics!
Yeong-sik's name is proudly displayed on the family restaurant's signage, yet he spends a considerable amount of time working on international assignments. He's diligently training to become a judge, impressing his senior mentors with his profound expertise. It appears that his financial contributions, coupled with Yeong-rye's salary, are the lifeblood that keeps the sprawling family thriving so comfortably in their current setting. Family dinners, without a doubt, are vibrant and bustling affairs!
That particular evening, Jae-pil gives Yeong-rye a call, extending an invitation to join him at a Medical Students' dinner. He explains that he's required to bring a date, and not only are the girls Yeong-rye shares a home with rooting for them to become a couple, but it seems Jae-pil's own heart is leaning in that direction as well.
Yeong-rye, bound by her sense of honor and loyalty to Jong-hui, finds herself in a quandary. When she arrives at the dinner, she mistakenly identifies someone as Jong-hui. In the ensuing confusion, Hyeong-rye also injures her foot. Sensing the turn of events, Jae-pil suggests they skip the dinner altogether. He carries her home on his back, and along the way, they engage in some light-hearted banter.
Amidst all this, Jung-hyeon returns from his trip to America, and this time, he compliments Yeong-rye, calling her pretty. His arrival creates a slightly awkward moment, especially since Yeong-rye had initially prepared a gift for Jae-pil, one that was also meant to serve as a declaration of her affection. Once again, their timing is off, leading to another missed opportunity.
Later that night, Young-sik drops off Jae-pil and Jung-hyeon at Yeong-rye's place after they've both gotten blind drunk. They wake up the next morning, tangled in each other's arms—a comical sight—and are then encouraged to join the family for breakfast.
When Sang-chul picks up Jae-pil to take him to the hospital, he's taken aback when Jae-pil confesses that his relationship with Yeong-rye goes beyond mere friendship—or at least, that's how he perceives it.
The salon buzzes with palpable excitement, as whispers ripple through the air about the imminent arrival of a VVIP guest. This esteemed individual is none other than the daughter of the chairwoman of the illustrious Dae-yang Group, making it an event of considerable significance. As the moment arrives, the VVIPs make their grand entrance, and to Yeong-rye's utter astonishment, it is Jong-hui who steps through the door. The two women's gazes meet and lock, holding each other in a silent, electric stare as the episode draws to a dramatic close.
