Buckle up, “Grey’s Anatomy” fans — the remainder of Season 13 is going to be a wild ride. Especially if there’s any truth to new rumors about Meredith Grey’s next love interest.

Shonda Rhimes, the creator of the wildly popular ABC medical drama, was recently asked by TV Line about the relationship between Meredith (Ellen Pompeo) and Alex Karev (Justin Chambers). The pair have been close since day one, but have never ventured into a romantic relationship much to the dismay of many “Grey’s Anatomy” fans. Rhimes told the publication that the only thing keeping her from blurring the lines of Alex and Meredith’s relationship is — well, nothing really.

“That’s like asking me why I haven’t had a certain kind of cheese. The answer is, ‘Because I haven’t had that kind of cheese.’”

Her answer gave fans hope that she may hear their pleas for a MerLex storyline and make it so. Many took to social media to celebrate the idea, professing their longtime wish for the two friends to get together. Rhimes has not said anymore about the characters, but didn’t rule out a romance.

When “Grey’s Anatomy” left off in November, Alex had finally been hit with the consequences of his actions. He stressed about going to court for assaulting DeLuca (Giacomo Gianniotti) and was certain that he’d lose. While he braced for the worst, ex-girlfriend Jo (Camilla Luddington) dealt with her own stress related to the case. During Season 13, episode 9, she learned that she may have to take the stand to share her testimony. In doing so, she would finally have to come clean about her new identity.

Out of fear of being exposed in the courtroom, Jo decided to confront Alex and tell him the truth. It took several tries for the duo to get together, but they were finally able to get a second alone in an elevator. Jo admitted to Alex that she’s married and had been throughout the duration of their marriage. She told him about the abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex and admitted that she was on the run and had to change her name to escape him.

Alex felt guilty after Jo’s confession and began to fear for her safety. He decided that rather than have her take the stand and risk being found by her estranged husband, he would accept a plea deal. Doing so meant that he would have to do two years in jail — losing his medical career and more. He confided in Meredith about his decision, which she found alarming. She warned him not to do it, but it was unclear when the episode ended whether he intended to listen to her or not.

Could this moment send Alex running into Meredith’s arms? “Grey’s Anatomy” fans will just have to wait until Jan. 19, 2017 to find out. Tune in to ABC at 8 p.m. EST.

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