In Chicago Fire Season 13, Episode 12, titled “Relief,” the long-running discussion between Kelly Severide (Taylor Kinney) and Stella Kidd (Miranda Rae Mayo) about their future takes

a major turn. After her harrowing experience in the One Chicago crossover event, Stella has been forced to reevaluate her choices—especially when it comes to starting a family.

The last time we saw her, she was seriously reflecting on whether she should continue postponing motherhood. Now, we finally have an answer!

The episode begins with Stella reconnecting with her long-lost cousin, Cole, someone she hasn’t seen in over a decade. This emotional reunion sparks something inside her, prompting her to have a heart-to-heart with Kelly. She tells him she no longer wants to keep putting things off—she’s ready to start a family with him.

However, while Stella has made up her mind about wanting a family, she’s still grappling with what that truly means for her. Having a baby would require stepping back from her career at a pivotal time—after all, she recently earned her Lieutenant title. She’s worked incredibly hard to get where she is, and the idea of putting her professional life on hold isn’t an easy one to accept. But despite these concerns, she takes the plunge and starts the conversation with Kelly, leaving fans wondering if a Stellaride baby is officially on the way.

Then comes the surprising twist: Stella confesses that while she does want a family, she doesn’t necessarily want to get pregnant. Instead, she wants to adopt. The moment hangs in the air as Kelly processes her words, but his reaction is nothing short of heartwarming. Without hesitation, he agrees. The decision feels right for them as a couple, proving once again that they always find a way to make things work on their own terms.

Adoption presents the perfect solution—it allows them to build a family together without requiring Stella to step away from her career for an extended period. More importantly, it gives them the opportunity to be equal partners in parenting. While they haven’t yet discussed the specifics—whether they’ll adopt an infant or an older child—their excitement and commitment to the journey are undeniable.

Of course, embarking on this path won’t be without its challenges. Both Kelly and Stella come from complicated family backgrounds—she lost her parents at a young age, and he didn’t have the best role models growing up. Their decision is just the first step in what is sure to be an emotional and complex journey. Adoption isn’t an overnight process, and it’s bound to test their relationship in new ways.

But one thing is clear: Chicago Fire is fully invested in Stellaride’s future. Their storyline has been a cornerstone of the show for years, and this new chapter keeps things fresh while staying true to their characters. Watching them navigate parenthood—its joys, struggles, and surprises—will bring a new depth to their relationship, making this one of the most exciting storylines in recent seasons. Fans better buckle up, because the next chapter for Kelly and Stella is just beginning!