Christopher Meloni has shared his ideal ending for the iconic duo Elliot Stabler and Olivia Benson from the Law & Order universe, saying he envisions a definitive “ride off into the sunset” for both characters.

Meloni, who plays Stabler alongside Mariska Hargitay’s Benson, described the strength of their long-running on-screen partnership as rooted in friendship and deep unspoken connection.

According to People, he said what makes the relationship compelling is that the characters “know each other in an unspoken way … and they’ve made these stabs or these attempts at making this thing another thing…”

Asked whether Stabler and Benson should end up together, Meloni said it’s a tough path but added that if he could write the ending, he’d have them exit together on their own terms.

“Some conclusion to Benson and Stabler,” he said thoughtfully, “I think both characters, Stabler and Benson, should ride off into the sunset.”

Furthermore, Meloni also reflected on his longstanding portrayal of Stabler (since 1999) and how the character has evolved, noting that “Organized Crime Stabler is sexier… there’s a certain fine wine quality to him.”