Chicago Fire is no stranger to workplace romances, but Season 13 hints at a particularly risky relationship that could have serious fallout. Since Chief Boden’s departure, Chief Dom Pascal, played by Dermot Mulroney, has stepped into a challenging role at Firehouse 51. While Pascal has ruffled some feathers with his leadership style, paramedic Lyla Novak (Jocelyn Hudon) seems taken with him in a way that may be crossing the line from admiration into something deeper.
With Chicago Fire on a short break, fans are left to wonder if this budding attraction will escalate and how it might impact the team. The next episode, “Birds of Prey,” airs November 6, and it’s likely we’ll see more hints about where Pascal and Novak’s storyline is headed.
Is Romance Brewing Between Pascal and Novak?
Hints of Novak’s interest in Chief Pascal have been apparent since the start of Season 13. In one early episode, Novak even described Pascal as “distractingly cute for a chief,” sparking her friend Violet’s suspicions. Violet’s casual observation that Novak has a history of dating authority figures, paired with Novak’s own remark about having “daddy issues,” suggests this might not be an entirely healthy attraction. Yet despite her better judgment, Novak’s interest seems to be growing.
Meanwhile, Chief Pascal hasn’t been nearly as forthcoming. Although he’s known to be tough on most of his team, Pascal has shown a softer side with Novak. Whether these interactions are purely professional or a sign of deeper feelings is unclear, but the writers of Chicago Fire seem to be setting the stage for a complicated entanglement.
Potential Problems Ahead for Pascal and Novak
This attraction, however, is far from harmless. First, there’s Pascal’s existing marriage, albeit a troubled one. Though his relationship with his wife, Monica, is strained, he is still married, and a romantic entanglement with Novak would only complicate his personal life. Novak, for her part, has been involved with married men before, and it’s unlikely she wants to find herself in that situation again.
Then there’s the professional issue: Pascal is Novak’s superior, creating a significant power imbalance that would make any relationship fraught with difficulties. This dynamic could damage morale and raise serious ethical concerns. Firehouse 51 operates as a tight-knit family, and any secretive affair would undoubtedly strain this unity.
The Fallout of a Pascal and Novak Romance
A secret relationship between Pascal and Novak would have far-reaching consequences at Firehouse 51. The couple would be forced to hide their relationship, risking scandal if they’re discovered. Such an affair would cast a shadow on Pascal’s credibility, especially since he holds his team to high ethical standards. Just this season, Pascal reminded Severide of the firehouse’s strict policy against loved ones working on the same shift. If he becomes involved with Novak, he risks appearing hypocritical, damaging his reputation and authority.
Beyond the personal implications, Pascal’s relationship with Novak could disrupt Firehouse 51’s focus. The dynamic could make working together uncomfortable for Novak, Pascal, and others who might suspect their affair, ultimately affecting their performance in high-stress situations.
Will Pascal and Novak’s Relationship Spell Disaster?
As Season 13 continues, viewers are left wondering if this risky romance will blossom or implode. The tension between Pascal and Novak could lead to anything from heartbreak to career-ending consequences. Whether Pascal will confront his feelings for Novak or stick to his principles, one thing is certain: Chicago Fire is setting up plenty of drama. With the stakes this high, Pascal and Novak’s story will be one to watch.
