Over the course of Chicago P.D.’s twelve seasons, no couple has captured hearts and broken them quite like Kim Burgess and Adam Ruzek. Their on-again, off-again relationship has been one of the show’s most emotionally compelling storylines — filled with tender moments, heartbreaking losses, quiet loyalty, and fierce love. Whether they’re working side by side as officers or navigating the complex journey of co-parenting, Kim and Adam have always shared a connection that’s impossible to ignore.
By Season 2, Ruzek breaks off his engagement and begins a secret romance with Burgess. Fans were thrilled as “Burzek” became official, and their dynamic heated up fast. They try to keep things under wraps, but it doesn’t take long before their co-workers catch on. Their love is passionate, but also fast-paced and impulsive — and it comes to a sudden halt when Burgess hesitates to accept Ruzek’s surprise proposal. Though she loves him, she’s not ready to make such a huge leap. The engagement is eventually called off, and the two go their separate ways — emotionally and romantically.
Just when fans were beginning to think Burzek might never return, Season 7 delivered a massive twist: Burgess discovers she’s pregnant — and Ruzek is the father. Initially stunned, Ruzek promises to support her, even offering to be as involved as she wants. The pregnancy rekindles their emotional bond, and for a while, it seems like they might be ready to create a future together — not just as co-parents, but possibly as partners again. But tragedy strikes when Burgess suffers a miscarriage after a violent incident on the job. The heartbreaking loss devastates both of them, and though they try to be strong for each other, the pain once again pulls them apart.
In one of the most defining moments of their journey, Burgess makes a life-changing decision: she adopts a young girl named Makayla, whose life was shattered by violence. Ruzek, without hesitation, offers to move in and help raise her. Though they’re not a couple in the traditional sense, they function as a family. They share responsibilities, routines, and love for Makayla. Their bond strengthens in subtle, meaningful ways, and fans start to wonder — is this slow burn finally turning into forever?
But the season isn’t without challenges. The couple faces Makayla’s kidnapping, a traumatic ordeal that brings them even closer while highlighting the depths of their fears — and their love. After surviving the shooting, Ruzek spends most of Season 11 recovering and reflecting. Burgess remains by his side, solidifying their bond. Slowly, their relationship transforms into something stable and emotionally honest. They’re no longer playing games or keeping secrets. They’re co-parenting, communicating, and caring for each other deeply. Though the show resists labeling them “official,” it’s clear to everyone — including the Intelligence Unit — that Kim and Adam are finally in it for the long haul.
While not flashy, Burzek in Season 12 is the most emotionally grounded version of themselves we’ve ever seen. They’re not hiding behind excuses or outside romances. They are quietly — but powerfully — building a life together. Whether they’re cooking dinner as a family, dealing with a case, or comforting each other after a tough day, there’s an undeniable warmth between them. Ruzek even refers to Makayla as “our daughter,” and Burgess no longer shies away from imagining a future with him.
Kim Burgess and Adam Ruzek’s love story is one of the most complex and enduring relationships on network television. Unlike many TV romances that burn bright and fade fast, Burzek has grown slowly, painfully, and authentically. They’ve been through loss, betrayal, trauma, and heartbreak — but also growth, forgiveness, and unconditional love. Their story isn’t about grand romantic gestures. It’s about choosing each other — over and over — in quiet, everyday moments. From partners to parents, friends to lovers, Kim and Adam’s relationship is messy, real, and beautifully human.
