In this episode of The Queen’s Gambit, we see a marked change in Beth’s behavior, as she suddenly starts pursuing romantic relationships. On the surface, it seems positive that Beth, who has never really had any friends (aside from her adoptive mother) or close relationships, is finally starting to make connections with other people. However, the detached way in which Beth regards her boyfriends indicates that they are likely nothing more than a way for Beth to handle her newfound grief over her mother’s death. This unhealthy way of dealing with emotions will probably lead to further complications in Beth’s life, or at the very least will make her relationships unfulfilling.