Preacher (Colin Lawrence) begins Season 5 by ending his relationship with Julia (Lucia Waters) to start over with Paige (Lexa Doig). However, Paige decides to leave Virgin River for a new start with her son. Broken-hearted Preacher takes some time off dating, but then firefighter Kaia (Kandyse McClure) walks right into Jack's bar (and his heart). The two keep things casual at first but they fall hard and fast.
Preacher and Kaia start having a sexy, casual fling but soon develop deep feelings for each other. They're a very likable pair, making it unfortunate that they have so many obstacles to overcome. Kaia's soon-to-be ex-husband, Jay (Dylan Bruce), is one of their biggest problems; he consistently tries to interfere with their long-term happiness.
Kaia's career may also become an issue if she eventually has to leave Virgin River because of it. Thankfully, the season ends with them happy and very much smitten with each other, but all the issues take their swoon factor down a smidge. These troubles may eventually damage their romance too.
