Hey everyone – I’m back after a break last week! Yesterday, I caught up on Sleepy Hollow after falling behind for a few weeks, but it was worth it. Spoilers ahead…

First off I’m excited about the introduction of Mr. Holly, who tracks down rare merchandise for anonymous buyers. He adds some romantic tension to the mostly-platonic dynamics between our main characters. He’s also morally ambiguous – Sleepy Hollow has always drawn a firm line in the sand between good and evil, but we don’t know who’s side Holly is on yet. But even that is changing: After the Ichabod rescues Katrina, who is living with the Headless Horseman (by choice), from the clutches of a former lover, the Horseman takes Katrina back home where he admits that he was genuinely worried for her safety. So not completely evil after all? And will his admission change Katrina’s relationship with Ichabod at all?

Speaking of which, now that Katrina has opted to stay with the Horseman, there’s room for Abby and Ichabod’s relationship to evolve into a romance. We know he’s still in love with Katrina, but feeling doubtful after he finds out a secret from her past. But even before that, I noticed their spark burn a little brighter, especially when Ichabod reminds Abby that their fate is to either triumph over evil together or die together. No matter what, they are bound together. In the moment it’s supposed to be taken in the spirit of friendship but it’s clear that his declaration goes deeper: The friendship between Abby and Ichabod is rooted in loyalty and love for each other, but are they in love? As much as I have enjoyed and value the friendship between this heroic pair, the kind that is hardly seen on screen between a man and woman, the set-up here seems to be pointing toward some major changes in the relationship dynamics between the main characters.

I’d also like to take a moment to celebrate the way the show continues to represent Abby and Jenny. There’s a scene in which their relationship is in serious jeopardy, but Abby manages to salvage the situation. The take away is that the bond between sisters is stronger and more eternal than any evil trick or spell. These two women are some of the most nuanced characters on TV right now: tough and brave while remaining connected to their emotions and still conflicted about their place in each others lives. Abby Mills is a TV heroine for our times; I’m just hoping she starts to the appreciation she deserves.

What do you guys think? Disagree? Have predictions where Ichabod and Abby’s relationship will go next? Let me know in the comments!

Image: Michael Lavine/FOX