At their next bootcamp session, the tension between Tane and Jo finally bubbles to the surface. As the class winds down, Tane pulls Jo aside, his tone measured but serious. Choosing his words carefully, he suggests that perhaps it’s not such a good idea for her to keep attending his sessions. He explains that Harper often shows up, and the overlapping presence has only been fuelling more conflict and awkwardness. His intention is to spare everyone further discomfort, but the implication stings.

Jo’s face hardens as she processes his words. To her, it sounds less like concern for peace and more like yet another example of Harper dictating her place in Tane’s life. The simmering resentment she’s been carrying finally boils over. Snapping back at him, she accuses Tane of still being entangled with his ex, of having “unfinished business” with Harper that he refuses to admit. Her words cut sharp, laced with frustration and jealousy, exposing her deep insecurity about where she really stands with him.

Tane, taken aback by the ferocity of her response, struggles to get a word in. What was meant to be a calm suggestion has instead blown up into a confrontation that makes it clear just how strained their dynamic has become. In Jo’s eyes, Harper will always come first — and in Tane’s silence, she finds all the confirmation she needs.

Tane quickly shakes his head, denying Jo’s accusation that he’s still tied up in unfinished business with Harper. His voice is steady but sincere as he tries to calm the situation, making it clear that isn’t what’s happening. Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, he goes on to admit something he’s been holding back: he does like Jo, and he genuinely wants to keep seeing her. The admission is heartfelt, but it comes with a heavy caveat. He explains that he can’t ignore the complicated reality of his situation — Harper’s feelings for him haven’t disappeared, and with baby Archie connecting them forever, he doesn’t want to inflame the situation further by moving too fast with someone new.

For Jo, the explanation does little to settle her doubts. Instead, it leaves her questioning his honesty. She narrows her eyes, pointing out that Harper herself had told her to take a chance with him only a few weeks earlier. If Harper had truly moved on, why is Tane now insisting that her unresolved emotions are such a major obstacle? To Jo, it sounds like a convenient excuse — a way of keeping her at arm’s length while still holding onto the possibility of a relationship.

Her frustration simmers just beneath the surface, and though she doesn’t say it outright, the implication hangs heavy between them: maybe Tane doesn’t even fully understand what he wants. For Jo, the uncertainty is maddening; for Tane, it’s a reminder that no matter what he feels, every choice he makes will have consequences for both Harper and Archie.