Contains spoilers for this episode and earlier episodes.
Rose asks Shane whether their difficulties in bed mean that he would rather be with a man. He finally admits that he is gay, and they end their romance while agreeing to stay friends. At the All-Star weekend in Tampa, Shane and Ilya play on the same team and reconnect privately. Shane apologises for leaving Boston and asks whether their relationship could become something more. Ilya says exposure would make returning to Russia unsafe, then breaks down as Shane comforts him.
After his father dies, Ilya returns to Russia and fights with Alexei over money and family obligations. He cuts ties with his brother while arranging support for his niece. Svetlana comforts him and recognises that he loves the man saved in his phone as Jane. Later, Shane invites Ilya to speak Russian during a call, even though he cannot understand it. Ilya describes his grief and anger, then admits his love for Shane in words Shane cannot comprehend.
Back in North America, Shane suffers an injury during a game against Boston. Ilya's concern brings him to the hospital, where Shane invites him to spend the summer at his cottage. Ilya hesitates. While Shane recovers, both men watch Scott Hunter lead New York to the championship. Scott calls Kip down from the stands and kisses him on the ice, making their relationship public. Seeing that declaration changes Ilya's answer: he calls Shane and agrees to come to the cottage.