Claire escapes her troubled past by joining the prestigious American Ballet Company in New York City, where she finds new opportunities and new enemies.

Claire's brother seeks her out when she attempts to cut ties with him, Paul enlists the talents of a cutting-edge choreographer, and ageing prima ballerina Kiira plots to stay in the limelight.

The company hits financial jeopardy, but the show must go on; choreographer Toni inspires the dancers and irks Paul, Claire enquires about the strip club, and Bryan arrives in New York.

Claire tries to expunge Bryan from her New York City life, Mia struggles with continued pain, and Ross feels Paul's insecurity.

Claire and Kiira compete to become the face of the ABC season, Mia worries that her eating disorder is doing real damage, and Claire gets a better understanding of Sergei's interests.

Thanksgiving arrives, and Paul's neuroses frays the dancers' nerves; Claire ventures home to see her ailing father and Bryan.