The core of the season focuses on struggle to stay clean and her burgeoning, codependent relationship with Jules (Hunter Schafer) , a new girl in town. Their bond initially acts as a lifeline for Rue, but her sobriety remains fragile and heavily tied to Jules's presence. Concurrent storylines include:

The season ends on a high-stakes cliffhanger during the winter formal:

Struggles with her reputation and relationships, ultimately facing an unplanned pregnancy and an abortion while dating McKay (Algee Smith) . Season Finale: "And Salt the Earth Behind You"