In February 2011 in Montreal, Shane Hollander tries to focus on training and an upcoming game, but he cannot stop thinking about Ilya Rozanov’s promise to come to his place. Shane argues with himself about the risk of being discovered in the NHL, the lack of safety in finding discreet men, and the fact that continuing with Ilya is a terrible idea—even as Shane admits it is also the most tempting option.

When Ilya (texting under the contact name “Lily”) asks for Shane’s address, Shane refuses, then quickly backtracks and proposes meeting somewhere else. Unable to let the opportunity go, Shane books a separate hotel room in Ilya’s team hotel and sends Ilya the room number, rationalizing that it is safer than bringing Ilya to his apartment while still knowing it could be disastrous if they are seen.

Ilya arrives, immediately clocking Shane’s nerves and dismissing the situation as “just sex.” Their rivalry and adrenaline spill into a rough, fast start, with Shane both resisting Ilya’s dominance and craving it. Shane is struck by Ilya’s confidence and how easily Shane’s earlier resolve collapses in the moment.

As they get into bed, Shane’s anxiety resurfaces about anal sex and inexperience, and Ilya questions Shane about what Shane has and has not done before. Ilya uses lube and condoms and slows down, guiding Shane with instructions and checking in repeatedly until Shane is able to relax. The experience becomes intensely pleasurable for Shane, eclipsing his previous sexual experiences and leaving him shaken by how much he wants it.

Afterward, Shane briefly basks in the afterglow, then immediately worries about how he could ever safely have this again if he cannot keep letting Ilya come to him. Ilya tells Shane to shower while Ilya dresses and leaves; when Shane returns, Ilya is already gone. Shane strips the bed, leaves a large tip for the maid, and goes back to his apartment alone.