20. Ryan

While on the road, Ryan struggles with being away from Indy after their intense night and notes they have not spoken in three days. Ethan urges him to join teammates at a private hotel bar, but Indy calls first from a grocery run for her bucket list: buying only what she wants. Ryan encourages her selfishness and sets a boundary that she needn’t care for him domestically.

They shift to plans: Ryan invites Indy to a formal party the following Saturday, hinting at dancing and asking her to buy a new dress with his card—and to get one for Stevie, too. Indy probes why the party is special, but Ryan keeps it secret. They agree not to go silent again and end the call warmly, both savoring the feeling of “see you at home.”

Ryan heads to the private bar, where Dom welcomes him. Ryan reflects on his isolation since entering the league and reconnects by asking about Dom’s mother, acknowledging his own recent selfishness. The camaraderie grows, reminding Ryan of the leader he once was.

Texting with Indy, they banter about proof of team bonding and jealousy over tall teammates, escalating into flirtation that leaves Ryan aroused. He decides to leave but notices timid rookie Leon Carson. Ryan invites Leon to stay late after practice for footwork and shots, boosting the rookie’s confidence.

Ryan departs having strengthened team bonds, taken a concrete mentoring step, and deepened intimacy with Indy through playful, candid communication and the promise of their upcoming formal date.