In Season 12 of Chicago P.D., Detective Kevin Atwater’s story takes an interesting turn when he meets Val, a woman he might like. Valeria and Atwater meet by chance at a pub, with Natalee Linez (Power Book III: Raising Kanan) playing Val. This starts a friendship that is complicated and changes over time.
[Warning: The below contains spoilers for Chicago P.D. Season 12 Episode 3 “Off Switch.”]
Atwater meets Val, who was also dumped by her boyfriend, at the pub where he was originally going to catch up with his brother. They click right away and have a flirtatious conversation, but Atwater walks away without obtaining her number, feeling disappointed in himself for passing up the chance. Later, by happenstance, they are reunited when Val turns out to be the forensic psychologist hired to assist with a case involving a traumatised witness experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The two instantly disagree on how to approach the witness. Val thinks she should go home to relax, but Atwater wants to keep her in the station for protection. Val recognises Atwater’s weight—not just with his work but also with his tenants and family—and this conflict builds mutual respect.
Despite occasional conflict Val and Atwater’s professional partnership strengthens as the program goes on. Atwater relies on his detective instincts while Val contributes her experience as a psychologist. They both learn from each other even if at first they disagree, particularly when Val sends the witness home against Atwater’s desires. When Atwater subsequently apologises for yelling at Val, he shows how much he respects her now that he knows that she was only trying to protect the witness.
Val differs from Atwater’s previous romantic partners in that she can support him in overcoming the psychological stress of his work. Val offers Atwater more than simply sexual possibility as LaRoyce Hawkins, who plays Atwater, said it to TV Line. She also imparts to Atwater a lesson in balance and self-care. Atwater found it difficult to manage his hard professional and personal life in his previous marriages. However, the connection with Val, who has the resources to assist him in managing his stress, gives Atwater an opportunity to achieve harmony rather than the typical conflict between his personal and professional lives.
At the conclusion of the show, Val extends an invitation to Atwater to take a vacation from his daily obligations. She makes him an easy yet significant suggestion — put down his phone, enter her house, and unwind guilt-free. For the ever-anxious Atwater, the offer is too good to refuse. Accepting, he steps inside and gives Val a kiss, giving the impression that he is finally letting go, if only for a little while.
This bond is crucial for Atwater as he struggles with his work’s emotional toll. Val helps him find serenity in his crazy existence but it’s unclear if they’ll date. Hawkins said this episode is “planting the seeds,” with the potential for a deeper relationship.
What’s Next for Atwater and Val?
Fans may anticipate to witness how Val might continue to affect Atwater’s personal and professional life. Even though their relationship’s future is still unknown. Val’s introduction has deepened Atwater’s character development, whether she joins the Intelligence Unit or stays in her private life. Atwater is happy for the chance to relax for now. Val has already changed Atwater’s life, but whether their relationship becomes more serious is unknown.
