Episode 10 of "The Only One" kicks off with Lin engaging the students in a vibrant history lesson, but Tian's discontent is palpable as he groans about the perpetual quarrels over territorial lines. Wang, ever the philosopher, chimes in, suggesting that it's precisely these boundary crossings that forge connections and foster understanding among people. However, Wang's musings are abruptly halted when a concerned teacher reprimands him for defying rest orders due to his sprained ankle, insisting he return home rather than linger in the dormitory.
Back at his aunt's warm embrace, Wang finds Auntie Jiang draped in a faint melancholy, missing Tian's presence. Sensing her heartache, Wang reassures her with tenderness, sharing that Tian is content and holds no grudges. In a heartfelt gesture, he enfolds her in a hug, recognizing their bond as an inseparable family unit.
As boredom sets in, Wang's fingers dance across his phone's keypad, texting Tian. Meanwhile, at the dorm, Tian diligently organizes exam questions, determined to aid Wang in catching up on his studies.
Elsewhere, Xi uncovers CCTV footage pivotal to Miss Jing's abduction, excitedly presenting it to Lin. Lin chides Xi for his impulsive nature, prompting Xi to reminisce about how his very impulsiveness had once rescued Lin from a sticky situation involving hooligans. Their paths had first crossed as fellow university students, and Xi's swift intervention had saved the day. Lin, intrigued, inquires about the motivations behind his journey and their joint café venture, but their conversation is abruptly cut short by a call from Miss Jing.
At a quaint shop, Xi meets Miss Jing, who reveals her newfound infatuation and a desire to gift him something. Though Xi's expression betrays a mix of amusement and discomfort, he obliges, and she eventually settles on a quaint ceramic mug as a token of her affection.
Meanwhile, Tian weaves a web of fibs to Wang about his supposed endeavors, their text messages weaving a tapestry of half-truths. As Wang approaches the campus, mistakenly assuming Tian is on his way back from class, Tian springs into action, racing to intercept him. Together, they make their way back to the dorm, with Wang's eyes lingering on a couple embracing amorously. He quips that this corner is renowned for romantic encounters, adding a touch of levity to their walk.
As they made their way back to the dormitory, Wang's eyes widened in recognition when he spotted one of their roommates, the very same man he had witnessed indulging in a passionate kiss with his girlfriend. Tian, ever attentive, promptly assisted Wang in exchanging his soiled bandage for a fresh one, tenderly caring for his injured foot.
Dawn broke, and Tian, with breakfast in hand, appeared at Wang's bedside, prepared to sacrifice his own studies for his friend's wellbeing. Yet, Wang, resolute, urged Tian to attend his classes, insisting that his presence was not necessary.
At school, Xi's gaze lingered on the mug gracing Lin's desk, a gift from Miss Jing. Her infatuation with Lin was palpable, and she even entrusted Xi, their mutual friend, with the delicate task of gauging Lin's feelings.
The school vacation dawned, and Wang realized his haste in rushing back to the dormitory the previous day was unwarranted. As the other students scattered to their homes, leaving behind an eerie silence, Wang and Tian found themselves the sole occupants of the dorm. That night, shadows danced mischievously, and Wang detected movement amidst the gloom. Tian, alert, noticed the window ajar, and soon, the news of a thief's midnight visit, stealing laptops and other valuables, echoed through the dormitory.
Returning to their sanctuary, Wang, filled with a sense of vulnerability, asked Tian to share his bed for the night. Memories flickered, casting a warm glow over their bond. Wang recalled a time when he had slept on Tian's bed back home, where Tian had fibbed, claiming to have slept beside him, but in truth, had dozed off at his desk. This revelation made Tian hesitate, feeling a subtle awkwardness at the thought of breaking those unspoken boundaries once more. Nevertheless, he complied, slipping into bed beside Wang, his mind wandering to the subtle yet profound changes that had blurred the lines between them.
