‘Heated Rivalry’ Creator Unpacks Finale’s Risky Vibe Shift: ‘It Felt Like Bliss’

Note: This story contains spoilers from “Heated Rivalry” Episode 6.

“Heated Rivalry” ended its triumphant first season with a quiet but impactful finale — and the promise of more romance in the not too distant future.

Episode 6, titled “The Cottage,” left the grandiosity of Scott Hunter’s (Francois Arnaud) public coming out in the rearview mirror for Shane (Hudson Williams) and Ilya’s (Connor Storrie) quiet getaway at the former’s secluded home. The hour adapts a pivotal moment...