Eight | Nathan

Nate narrates preparations for Robbie’s casino-themed birthday party, juggling deliveries, decorations, and a guarded guest list. Despite Robbie nearly spoiling the surprise, the house transforms, complete with a staffed bar and inside jokes like the Judge Judy cocktail. Nate’s goal is clear: make the night perfect and ensure Sabrina attends for Robbie.

When Sabrina and Anastasia arrive, Tim relays Sabrina’s defiant message, amusing Nate. Outside at the bar, Nate notices Anastasia’s joy and nerves, offers his tux jacket against the cold, and tries for a friendlier tone. Their banter tests his “probation,” but her smiles and teasing suggest thawing hostility.

Back inside, Anastasia proposes poker, then convincingly hustles Nate out of two hundred dollars after feigning inexperience. When she heads to the bathroom, Nate guides her upstairs to his, giving her a quieter space away from the crowd. They talk candidly about social exhaustion and her childhood competitions, and Nate offers future “escapes.”

As Anastasia moves to leave, Nate asks for forgiveness. She maintains he’s still on probation, but mutual attraction surfaces in charged, competitive flirtation. Pressed close at the door, they trade provocative challenges—she doubts his ability to please her; he counters with confidence—culminating in Nate’s whispered invitation to “test that theory,” leaving their standoff unresolved but transformed by palpable chemistry.