The following contains spoilers from The Rookie Season 5, Episode 20, "S.T.R.," which debuted on Tuesday, April 18, on ABC.
The Rookie's "S.T.R." brings Tim Bradford's ex-wife Isabel back to town. The episode doubles down on the strengths of Lucy and Tim's relationship, even going out of its way to further differentiate it from Tim's marriage. So, instead of opting for any romantic drama, Isabel is a red herring for Chenford's biggest obstacle yet -- Lucy Chen's UC work. The eventual, possible long-term effects of Lucy's chosen field loom large in the episode's final minutes. That tension is a far more fitting and dramatic conclusion to "S.T.R.," especially in its subtlety.
By subverting expectations with Isabel, The Rookie focuses on a compelling and long-running obstacle that can push Lucy, Tim and their relationship in new directions for seasons to come -- if the show sees fit. The police procedural often teases aspects of Chenford's future through thoughtful narrative choices, and "S.T.R." is no different. Tim and Lucy's scenes showcase a healthy, supportive relationship while telegraphing drama that is not contrived and has the potential to make them stronger, just like Lucy's secret in getting Tim the Metro job.
Chenford Is Solid, and Lucy Is Different
The Rookie goes from Tim assuring the docu-series crew that he and Lucy "are in a very different place" to Jake and Sava in Season 5, Episode 17, "Double Trouble," to Tim telling Isabel that "Lucy's different" from her. Instead of that pattern landing as Tim convincing himself of something that isn't true, Eric Winter's delivery showcases Tim's confidence in his relationship -- in Lucy. As a result, Chenford finds themselves in an ease that includes sweet scenes like Tim making breakfast for them and Tamara because she is a part of their family.
"S.T.R." reestablishes that solid foundation ahead of Isabel's arrival, who doesn't rock them but brings the brewing conflict to the surface. The final minutes bring that strain into a reflective conversation, but it can only do so because of how The Rookie Season 5 gradually builds to this point. Tim encourages Lucy to go to undercover school in Season 5, Episode 2, "Labor Day." Tim and Lucy hear Noah Foster say, "I'm starting to think the undercover life isn't conducive to a happy relationship," in Season 5, Episode 16, "Exposed." More recently, Tim tells Lucy, "It's okay. We'll figure it out," in Season 5, Episode 19, "A Hole in the World," when they wonder how often they will see each other if she passes her detective exam.
Undercover Work Uncovers Chenford's Fears
That low hum of their jobs pulling them apart persists in the background of Chenford's relationship before it even begins, which is why Tim and Lucy deal with the prior unequal workplace dynamic early on in their relationship. Now, the couple has a new elephant in the room with them, as the very thing that brought them together could be the same thing that tears them apart. Chenford's UC op in Season 5, Episode 1, "Double Down," makes Tim and Lucy's reciprocated feelings undeniable. So it's fitting that "S.T.R." parallels when they prepared for that trip in Season 4, Episode 22, "A Day in the Hole."
The Season 4 finale is the last time that Lucy and Tim are vulnerable (with beers) on Lucy's couch, and the distinctions between the scenes signify the growth in their dynamic and their overwhelming love for one another. For instance, it's small yet incredibly thoughtful that Lucy checks in with Tim before opening up the conversation because she knows that Tim has dealt with a lot recently, including Isabel's return. Likewise, it's brave of Lucy to voice that she's worried that Tim won't take it well if she goes on long-term assignments, and Lucy's honesty opens the door for Tim to open up about his fears when he's ready.
Melissa O'Neil and Eric Winter's performances are especially great in that final scene. Their countenances simultaneously reflect the realization that this issue isn't resolved and will only intensify. It's as though Lucy knows Tim is holding back, and Tim convinces himself to put on a brave face. This unresolved conflict will likely lead to plenty of angst and drama in Chenford's future, but it also allows Lucy to explore what she wants from her career. Not to mention, it gives Tim the space to embrace vulnerability -- something that has only recently become easier for him with Lucy by his side. Ultimately, if Lucy and Tim go into this new chapter with open and honest communication, there's no reason they should repeat history.
The Rookie airs on Tuesdays at 8:00 p.m. on ABC.