Alona Tal's portrayal of Kayla Craig in the Prime Video series "Cross" has significantly evolved, making her an increasingly intriguing character, particularly as the show heads into its third season. While Kayla offered invaluable assistance to Alex (Aldis Hodge) in Season 1 to stop Ramsey (Ed Ramsey), Season 2 thrusts them into a side-by-side partnership on a complex case. This intense collaboration profoundly tests their connection and forces Kayla to confront the extent of her ambition and what she truly desires.

During a discussion on Collider Ladies Night, Tal delved into key scenes from Season 2, illuminating Kayla's deep-seated drive and genuine intentions. Regarding Kayla and Alex's evolving romantic relationship, Tal emphasized that these feelings are not new or impulsive but rather an inherent part of Kayla's competitive nature. She characterized Kayla's pursuit of Alex with the question, "Can I?" reflecting her desire to test her capabilities and interests. This dynamic contrasts sharply with her Season 1 fling with Sampson (Isaiah Mustafa), which Tal described as a mutual, temporary "itch"-scratching, aligned with Sampson's character in the books as a "man whore." Kayla's motivations are also tied to her desire to keep life interesting and progress her professional interests, even when these conflict with her personal emotions. Despite her strategic approach, Tal insists that Kayla's feelings for Alex are genuine, stating, "She's not a monster. She's definitely genuine. She's got genuine emotions for him. She likes his life."

A major turning point for Kayla and Alex in Season 2 occurs when their individual ambitions to crack a case collide. During Alex's face-to-face meeting with Luz (Jeanine Mason), Kayla listens in. However, when Alex perceives the conversation souring, he makes a gesture of good faith, granting Luz true privacy by cutting Kayla out. Kayla, though anticipating this possibility, chose to believe Alex might not do it. This action doesn't alter her perception of Alex, but rather impacts how she views herself for lowering her guard. Tal likened it to having faith in a "cheating boyfriend," recognizing Alex's equal ambition to be the one who solves the case. Kayla understands Alex's motivation was not malicious, acknowledging she would likely have done the same, highlighting their shared drive as "two chiefs" battling for control.

The climax of Season 2 sees Kayla and Alex diverging paths. Kayla aligns with the FBI, while Alex, disillusioned by the institution's willingness to protect those in power, is determined to hold Lance (Matthew Lillard) accountable for his crimes. Alex succeeds in publicly exposing Lance, but ultimately resigns from law enforcement, symbolically handing in his badge and gun before driving off. Kayla, however, chooses to remain within law enforcement despite her newfound disillusionment. Tal describes this shift as a "veil lifted," revealing the imperfections of the system, leading to a hardening of character. "It's disheartening and it’s hardening," she noted, suggesting that this contributes to individuals becoming "colder and more vicious" in higher positions.

With "Cross" officially renewed for a third season, Tal offered insights into Kayla's state moving forward. When asked about Kayla's greatest strength and weakness, Tal suggested that Kayla now possesses a new fearlessness, having confronted and survived daunting entities. However, Tal believes this newfound confidence borders on cockiness, a weakness Kayla may not yet recognize. Tal intends to explore this in Season 3, noting that Kayla's internal struggles and power could lead to self-destruction. This complex interplay of strength and vulnerability sets the stage for an intriguing character arc in the upcoming season. Tal also provided additional context on Kayla's connections with Bobby Trey (Johnny Ray Gill) and her first interaction with Elle (Samantha Walkes) in the Season 2 finale in her full interview.