The Tale of Rose explores the intricate relationship between Huang Yimei and Zhuang Guodong, whose breakup stems from various factors such as future plans, personal values, family influences, and personality differences. Each of them prioritizes their own needs, which ultimately leads to their separation.

Divergent Priorities and Long-Distance Struggles

Huang Yimei and Zhuang Guodong are a couple separated by continents, with a six-hour time difference adding to their challenges. Huang Yimei eagerly waits to speak with Zhuang Guodong every day, wanting to know all about his life in Paris. However, Zhuang Guodong, busy adapting to his new job at the Paris headquarters, struggles to balance his demanding schedule and their relationship.

He conceals his outings with female colleague Naomi to avoid suspicion, but when Huang Yimei discovers his lie, it sparks a heated argument. Although Zhuang Guodong attempts to make amends, their reunion in Paris reveals deeper issues. Huang Yimei is frustrated by Zhuang Guodong’s unilateral decision-making and his relentless work ethic aimed at advancing his career, hoping to eventually bring her to Paris. However, she cannot leave her job and family behind, leading to further dissatisfaction.

Clashing Lifestyles and Growing Apart

Zhuang Guodong’s attempt to spend quality time with Huang Yimei falls flat when work intrudes yet again. Despite his efforts to accommodate her, including a quick sightseeing tour and a hurried lunch, his constant preoccupation with work leaves Huang Yimei feeling neglected. The tipping point comes when Zhuang Guodong takes her to his office, where she sees him effortlessly mingling with colleagues, highlighting the growing distance between them.

At a charity dinner, Huang Yimei feels out of place as Zhuang Guodong socializes with friends, leaving her to drink alone. The final straw is when Zhuang Guodong reconnects with an old acquaintance, Lulu, making Huang Yimei feel like an outsider. Realizing the deepening chasm between them, she quietly leaves Paris and later decides to end the relationship after much contemplation.