Contents
Forty-Four | Nathan
Overview
Nathan returns to the Titans and wins his first game back, buoyed by Anastasia’s support. After therapy, Dr. Robeska recommends Anastasia temporarily move back in with Aaron to rebuild competitive sync before nationals. Nathan reacts with jealousy and distrust, prompting a painful argument. They decide to celebrate anyway, but the rift lingers.
Summary
Nathan describes two exhausting weeks of school, training, and anxiety over Anastasia’s therapy with Aaron. He misses their shared rink time but focuses on his first game back with the Titans. Anastasia attends in his jersey, and Nathan scores, riding the high of her visible support and a congratulatory text from her dad.
After the win, Nathan meets Anastasia, who is excited and proud. On the way to celebrate with teammates, Nathan asks about therapy. Anastasia resists, clearly anxious. Pressed, she reveals Dr. Robeska advised a temporary move back in with Aaron to regain their pre-competition sync before nationals.
Nathan’s jealousy and distrust flare; he accuses Aaron of manipulation and questions the therapist’s objectivity. Anastasia counters that her choice is professional and necessary for their goals, asking Nathan to separate Aaron the skater from Aaron the friend. The argument escalates when Nathan brings up Aaron’s past control over her eating, which hurts Anastasia.
Reasserting her love for Nathan, Anastasia sets a boundary about respect and focus before nationals. Nathan can only manage that he doesn’t want her hurt. They agree to go celebrate with the team, but Nathan’s mood is deflated and the conflict over Aaron remains unresolved.
Who Appears
- Nathan HawkinsTitans captain; wins first game back, feels jealous and distrustful of Aaron; argues with Anastasia over moving back.
- Anastasia AllenSupports Nate at his game; reveals therapist’s advice to move in with Aaron for nationals; defends professional choice and affirms love.
- Aaron CarlisleAnastasia’s skating partner; attends therapy with her; prospective temporary roommate to regain competitive sync.
- Dr. RobeskaTherapist recommending Anastasia temporarily live with Aaron to rebuild on-ice connection before nationals.
- Coach FaulknerDelivers post-game debrief; warns Nate about performance stakes.
- Stassie’s dadTexts Nathan with encouragement before the game, boosting Nathan’s morale.
- BrinAttends the game with Anastasia, part of Nate’s cheering section.