In this first part of a two-part series, we learn that the renovation work in the Old Town district is nearing completion. The city's maintenance department is sending out technicians to check out the pipes and valves in all the houses in the district. One of the maids, named Ding, is caught in the act of opening the kitchen door to a stranger. The stranger, named Xiaoxia, is a cleaning lady who has come to pick up the household's water bill. He asks to cancel the appointment and sign a note of apology.