In Chicago Fire Season 13, Carver finds himself in a complicated place emotionally. After revealing his feelings to Violet and not receiving the response he hoped for, he leaves town briefly and returns with a new girlfriend, Tori. Their relationship has been tumultuous, with nights spent partying into the early hours, leaving Carver exhausted and struggling at work. Yet despite the negative impact on his health and career, Carver doesn’t seem willing to end things with Tori. Actor Jake Lockett recently opened up to TV Line about Carver’s arc this season and why he’s sticking it out with Tori.
Why Carver Stays: A Sense of Comfort
According to Lockett, the primary reason Carver remains in the relationship with Tori is comfort. “For him, it’s the comfort,” Lockett explained. Tori has known Carver for years — since they were young — and is familiar with his past and the darker sides of his personality. “She’s seen the dark sides of him, and she understands his darkness,” Lockett said. “She has her own darkness too. She doesn’t judge him or try to change him, which makes it an easier way out for him. It might not be the best decision, but it’s definitely the easier one.”
A Complex Connection with Manipulative Undertones
While Carver’s history with Tori provides a sense of stability, their relationship is far from perfect. Lockett suggests that Tori’s strong attachment to Carver may come from a deeper place of insecurity. “Tori really believes in the relationship, but you have to wonder if it’s to the detriment of both of them,” Lockett explained. He hints at some manipulation on Tori’s part, noting how she often pushes Carver’s boundaries, making him uncomfortable and causing him to question his choices.
“Tori pushes him into situations that he’s not always comfortable with,” Lockett shared. “But because there are genuine feelings there, and because she’s been there for him in the past, he’s caught in this gray area, unsure of what his next step should be.”
Carver’s Struggles: Will He Break the Cycle?
The dynamic between Carver and Tori seems to be leading him into a downward spiral. Recent scenes have shown the impact of his late-night partying on his job performance, with Firehouse 51’s Stella Kidd even sending him home to rest. Lockett teased that this might be a turning point for Carver, but it’s uncertain whether he will wake up to the unhealthy pattern he’s stuck in or continue to spiral further.
Fans will have to tune in to see if Carver finds a way out of this complicated relationship or if he decides to stay with Tori despite the toll it’s taking on him. The drama unfolds every Wednesday on NBC, where Chicago Fire Season 13 continues to explore the emotional battles and personal dilemmas faced by its beloved characters.
