Contents
Forty-Nine | Anastasia
Overview
After Aaron forces an on-ice kiss, Anastasia ends their partnership despite a top score, prioritizing consent and self-worth over success. Nathan arrives, defends her, and punches Aaron. Ignoring damage control, Anastasia withdraws from the competition, receives support from her parents, and moves out to live with Nathan while Sabrina organizes the relocation.
Summary
In the immediate aftermath of their flawless short program, Aaron grabs Anastasia and kisses her without consent under flashing cameras. Shocked and overwhelmed, Anastasia flees the ice, telling Aaron and Coach Brady that she is done. Brady urges composure for the broadcast, while Aaron insists it was a harmless stunt.
Nathan rushes in, sees Anastasia’s distress, and, after confronting Aaron for forcing himself on her, punches him. Despite placing first among those who skated, Anastasia refuses to celebrate and declares she will never skate with Aaron again. Aaron belittles her prospects, but Anastasia stands firm and instructs Brady to withdraw her if they advance.
Anastasia leaves with Nathan, avoiding her phone until he answers a call from her father, who supports her and even condones Nate’s defense. Calmed by their backing, she dozes on the drive back to Maple Hills.
At her apartment, Sabrina has mobilized the hockey team to move Anastasia out immediately. Amid the chaos, Anastasia feels relief at the decisive break from Aaron and agrees to live with Nathan, ending the night grounded by his care and their shared plan for the future.
Who Appears
- Anastasia "Stassie" AllenEnds her partnership with Aaron after a non-consensual kiss; withdraws from competition; moves in with Nathan.
- Nathan (Nate) HawkinsComforts Anastasia, punches Aaron in her defense, drives her home, and supports moving her in.
- AaronForces an on-ice kiss, minimizes it as a stunt, argues she can’t succeed without him, is punched by Nate.
- Coach BradyUrges PR composure, mediates briefly, then reprimands Aaron as Anastasia decides to withdraw.
- SabrinaTakes charge of moving Anastasia out; fiercely protective and organizes the team’s help.
- RussHelps pack Anastasia’s apartment during the hurried move-out.
- JJAssists with moving; causes a crash that draws Sabrina’s ire.
- Anastasia’s fatherCalls Nate, expresses support for Anastasia, and approves of Nate defending her.