At the end of her rope after a series of emotional setbacks, Diane (Kim Delaney) decides to take a leave of absence, which doesn't please Danny (Rick Schroder). While investigating the murder of a stripper who sidelined in stolen jewelry, Danny becomes very close to the dead woman's co-worker Kristen (Jenna Gering) -- thereby setting the stage for a story arc that will lead inexorably to the series-finale cliffhanger. Meanwhile, Cynthia (Juliana Donald) expresses her hope that Andy (Dennis Franz) is doing the right thing by remarrying Katie (Debra Monk). ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi