After a few failed relationships in the past, Atwater (dare we say, much like his boss, Hank Voight) is due for some romance. With Burzek's will-they-will-they-not romantic arc ending soon as the couple finally prepares to walk down the aisle, the show could benefit from having another major romantic arc to balance out the action. Season 12, Episode 3, "Off Switch", included a meet-cute moment between Atwater and Val (Natalee Linez), a forensic psychologist set up as his new love interest. As Val comes in to help the Intelligence unit with a case, the chemistry between them is increasingly obvious, and the two form a connection. Though Val hasn't since returned to the series, Sigan has teased she will be back and the two will get the chance to build on that connection. According to TV Line, this new relationship will also lead to more fun scenes between Atwater and partner-turned-detective Burgess, whom he will look to for some advice.
Val Will Be a Good Fit for Atwater
The episode's title, where Atwater meets Val, is derived from their conversation where the lady asks if he has an "off-switch" as she instantly makes him out to be the type to overwork himself. Val's profession as a psychologist makes her a perfect fit for Atwater, who does not easily let his guard down. In a previous interview, Sigan previewed their connection, stating:
“She gets a firsthand, front-row ticket for watching Atwater navigate all these nuances at once. Thank God she’s a psychiatrist. So she has the skills to not just be patient but also understand what’s going on, and teaches him how to give himself grace after she offers him grace in the first place. It’s unexpectedly sweet, which I dig about it, because I don’t think Atwater sees it coming. [His] guards are always up.”
Though Val's return to Chicago P.D. Season 12 is certain, it isn't clear when in the season it will be. The first post-crossover event episode, "The Good Shepherd" airs this Wednesday and, per the teaser, will possibly be Dante-centric. As always, stay tuned to Collider for updates.