In the 1980s, Zhang Yaocuo's handbag factory faces closure. His friend Chen Rongchang becomes a worker representative, causing tensions with Zhang's father. They decide to start a factory in their hometown. Zhang falls in love with worker Li Tong, but their business fails, and they return to Hong Kong. They face financial troubles and Zhang's father is imprisoned. They establish a new factory in Shenzhen, growing both their business and their relationship. Zhang meets Yao Zhaoran, and Li Tong silently endures his affair. After the factory closes, Rongchang marries Zhang's sister, and starts an affair with his secretary. Zhang Meihua discovers the truth and divorces Rongchang.