Six | Nathan

Nathan recounts three chaotic weeks as Aaron’s rumor spreads, forcing meetings with coaches. The team learns UCLA players trashed the rink after a girl falsely implicated Russ; UCLA’s coach and captain Cory confirm the truth, easing Russ’s guilt. Coach Faulkner, furious, warns any further irresponsibility will mean season-long benchings and even forfeits.

Nathan reflects on protecting his draft future and on family pressures, especially his controlling father and younger sister Sasha’s skiing career. He shifts focus to planning Robbie’s surprise twenty-first birthday, learning Robbie is still talking to Sabrina and wanting her invited.

Because the teams share the rink under Coach Brady’s hardline schedule, Nathan frequently crosses paths with Anastasia, who still avoids him. Henry, however, apologizes to Anastasia about the Russ situation and earns her goodwill, becoming the only teammate she greets warmly.

Nathan approaches Anastasia to ask a favor: invite Sabrina to Robbie’s Vegas-themed surprise party, and he invites Anastasia too. She curtly agrees. Afterward, Henry mentions seeing Anastasia making out with Ryan Rothwell, complicating Nathan’s hopes and fueling locker-room speculation.

As practice begins, Aaron lingers on the ice, speaking to Anastasia in patronizing tones. He then taunts Nathan, claiming Anastasia will lead him on and drop him. Remembering Faulkner’s warnings, Nathan resists the urge to fight, warns Aaron to stop insulting her, and lets the confrontation end without violence, preserving team discipline.