Just because he's finding his confidence and learning a measure of assertiveness, doesn't mean there's romance-level chemistry between them. I'd actually expect better chemistry with Bao Qian once he really starts being more open and outgoing with Ling Qi--and even then, as has been said, Meng Dan just clicks with her and is already way ahead.
I get that some of you like Shelly more, but let's be realistic here: most people are vibes-based, not "well gosh he sure worked real hard and didn't give up, I guess I'll reward that instead of following my heart"-based. Heck, even in this more pragmatic society where politics and power are important, the guy with the best vibes competes anyway--it's not like he's this poor pauper that'd be an eschewing of responsibilty to couple with. He's rich af lmao, financially and socially.
As has been said, though, he's grown and has actually started putting himself out there now. The problem is, with what we saw of that, the chemistry doesn't feel like it's really changing. I think it will "improve," but only so far as the friendly relationship dynamic exists.
Tl;dr Meng Dan is just fun to be around. Weilu Power Couple Supremacy.
