The 1960s: Chaos and Commotion in the Courtyard Compound

In 1968 Beijing, the Jiang family resides in a crowded courtyard compound. Jiang Ruyu, an eighteen-year-old high school graduate, lives with her grandmother and two younger brothers after her parents died. Her life is disrupted by a violent confrontation with her cousin Jiang Ruyi and aunt Wang Shuhua over a department store job. Jiang Ruyi, spoiled and envious, accuses Ruyu of stealing the position, leading to a physical fight where Ruyu is severely injured. Zheng Yang, a neighbor and truck driver, intervenes and rushes Ruyu to the hospital.

While unconscious, Ruyu reads a novel describing her family’s future: Ruyi becomes a military officer’s wife and a lucky charm, while Ruyu suffers from a facial scar and a miserable marriage. Upon waking, Ruyu discovers a Trans-Dimensional Check-In System bound to her mind. The system provides daily rewards based on location, starting with a welcome package containing essential goods like a bicycle, sewing machine, and food coupons. Ruyu realizes she can alter her fate by using the system to improve her life and protect her family from the tragic outcomes predicted in the novel.

Ruyu recovers and begins working at the Capital Department Store as a sales clerk. She navigates workplace dynamics with the help of her mentor, Master Zhang, while dealing with jealousy from temporary worker Wu Mei. Ruyu uses the system to acquire items that help her family, such as scar removal cream and rheumatism patches. She also secretly sends extra food to her brother Jiang Jun, who is sent to the countryside, ensuring his well-being despite the hardships of rural labor.

Jiang Ruyi is sent to the Great Northern Wilderness in Heilongjiang Province. Her arrogant and entitled attitude quickly alienates her from fellow educated youth. She struggles with the harsh conditions and lack of resources, marking the beginning of her downfall. Meanwhile, Ruyu builds a network of allies, including her grandmother and brothers, and maintains a respectful distance from her toxic aunt and cousin. She also reconnects with Zheng Yang, who has broken off an engagement with a woman named Jiang Xiaoyu after she displayed unreasonable behavior.

Ruyu’s life stabilizes as she earns a steady income and uses the system to accumulate valuable items. She invests in stamps and other collectibles, anticipating their future value. Her relationship with Zheng Yang deepens as they interact more frequently, with Ruyu offering him support and companionship. The family remains united, with Ruyu taking on the role of the responsible elder sister, ensuring her brothers receive education and care.

As time passes, Ruyu continues to use the system to overcome challenges and improve her circumstances. She avoids the pitfalls that led to her family’s suffering in the novel, such as financial ruin and estrangement. Her proactive approach and strategic use of the system’s resources allow her to secure a better future for herself and her loved ones, diverging from the tragic path outlined in the book she read.