Ryan's world is turned on its head when he has a car accident. He and Mai survive the accident intact, but Anita is seriously injured and left in a coma. Ryan is plunged into a world of guilt and recrimination, not only is he facing criminal charges, but he also has to face the fact that Anita may die as a result of his actions. Melanie is also hitting the depths of a personal crisis. She has decided to leave Hartley High to join Jay in the pursuit of happiness and meaning in life. Melanie's dad Tony not only tries to dissuade his daughter from joining Jay, but he is also determined to get Jay drummed out of his job for good! As Charlie grows closer to Aurora he is convinced that he has met his perfect match. However, all may not be as it seems, and Charlie is devastated when he sees Aurora in a passionate clinch with another man. Is this the end for Charlie and Aurora?