Gabriela Perez, portrayed by Stephanie Arcila, has faced a tumultuous journey on “Fire Country,” with her character’s storyline nearly derailing during Season 3. However, her farewell in the episode titled “Goodbye for Now” takes a poignant yet succinct turn. Following the emotional aftermath of Bode Leone’s (Max Thieriot) father Vince’s (Billy Burke) death, Gabriela reveals her decision to leave town for a new role as a fire department recruiter. This departure adds to Bode’s heartache, prompting a mutual agreement to part with a “goodbye for now,” as Bode describes it, before he retreats to his locker to confront the ominous bag of blue pills.

Although Gabriela exits the series for the time being and Stephanie Arcila bids farewell to her role, Gabriela’s presence lingers in Bode’s heart. “It really was a love letter to Gabriela and to Bode,” shares showrunner and executive producer Tia Napolitano with Deadline. “We just wanted to enjoy them a little bit before we said the name of the episode, ‘Goodbye for Now.’ It’s not goodbye forever for Gabriela.” While fans may have mixed emotions about Gabriela, Bode’s feelings remain clear, promising audiences more glimpses of their romance, even as Audrey (Leven Rambin) steps in to support Bode during Gabriela’s absence.

The allure of Gabriela and Bode’s romance has always hinged on the tension of forbidden love. Yet, as Tia Napolitano emphasizes, it was crucial to showcase them in tender, everyday moments as seen in “Goodbye For Now.”

For those eagerly hoping for the star-crossed couple to reunite, Napolitano confirms there are currently no plans for Stephanie Arcila’s return. Fans of Gabi and Bode’s relationship will have to remain patient, holding onto hope until destiny brings them together once more.

“He was incarcerated, there’s a lot of angst and longing, and it’s beautiful,” she explained to Deadline. “But we wanted to see them literally hang out in their pajamas together, like we saw, we wanted to give them some domestic bliss where they just get to be. And yes, Vince died, but she’s feeding him, and they’re falling asleep on the couch.” 

For viewers who are revving their engines over the notion of this star-crossed twosome finally getting back together, Napolitano reports that there are no future plans for Stephanie Arcila’s return. Calm will have to be the watchword of fans who adore Gabi and Bode’s relationship — at least until the next time they meet.