The Young and the Restless fandom has been buzzing non-stop over the recent tension-filled scenes between Tessa Porter (Cait Fairbanks) and Daniel Romalotti (Michael Graziadei). Their easy chemistry, emotional eye contact, and tender conversations have left viewers wondering: Is there more than friendship brewing between these two?

In a new interview, Cait Fairbanks finally addressed the speculation — and what she had to say may surprise both “Teriah” (Tessa and Mariah) fans and those rooting for Daniel’s next chapter.

💔 The Emotional Distance Between Tessa and Mariah

For months now, fans have sensed something missing between Tessa and her wife, Mariah Copeland (Camryn Grimes). The couple, once one of Genoa City’s strongest pairs, have faced challenge after challenge. Between Tessa’s career struggles, their adopted daughter Aria’s hearing loss, and Mariah’s demanding work schedule, the once fiery passion between them seems to have dimmed.

Cait Fairbanks admitted that the emotional distance is intentional. “Relationships evolve,” she said. “Tessa and Mariah have gone through so much — adoption, illness, family tension. Sometimes even love can get buried under the weight of everyday life.”

Fairbanks noted that while Tessa deeply loves Mariah, the couple’s communication breakdown is something real and relatable. “They’re both strong women, but they process things differently. Tessa tends to internalize pain, while Mariah wants to fix everything. That contrast creates friction.”

⚡ Enter Daniel Romalotti — The Confidant with a Complicated Past

When Daniel returned to Genoa City, he brought with him a mix of nostalgia and mystery. His bond with Lily had ended, and he was still dealing with the fallout from Heather’s reappearance. But it was Tessa’s kindness and understanding that seemed to give him some peace.

Fans immediately noticed their connection. Whether they were discussing music, life’s disappointments, or co-parenting challenges, the chemistry was undeniable.

Cait Fairbanks addressed the speculation directly:
“Daniel and Tessa understand each other in a way that’s not romantic — at least not yet,” she teased. “They’re two people who have both struggled to find themselves again. There’s comfort in that kind of shared pain.”

However, when asked if the writers might explore something deeper between the two, Fairbanks laughed but didn’t deny the possibility. “In soap land, anything can happen. But for now, I think Tessa just needs a friend who sees her without judgment.”

💬 Fans React: Love Triangle or Emotional Healing?

Social media exploded after the last few episodes aired. Viewers were quick to weigh in on what they saw as a new potential pairing.

On X (formerly Twitter), one fan wrote:

“If Tessa and Daniel ever happen, I’m not ready. But I can’t deny their chemistry. Mariah better step it up!”

Another countered:

“Tessa and Daniel make a great friendship. I don’t want another love triangle — just two broken souls helping each other heal.”

The audience seems split between those wanting Teriah to remain endgame and those intrigued by a possible emotional affair storyline. The tension is exactly what Y&R thrives on — realistic, slow-burn relationship drama.