Contains spoilers for this episode and earlier episodes.
Beth returns from Mexico to the Kentucky house, where Alma's absence leaves her alone with familiar rooms and routines. Harry Beltik calls to offer help with her chess. She invites him over, and he examines the weaknesses in her play, warning that anger can trap her in a single line of attack. He urges her to study Borgov properly instead of relying entirely on instinct. Harry also notices her tranquilizers, though their work together soon becomes entangled with his feelings for her.
Beth asks Harry to move in, and they begin sleeping together. He admits he waited for her and had his teeth fixed, but she avoids the romantic conversation. Their games become tense as Beth grows impatient with his slower thinking. Harry eventually decides to leave, explaining that he has taught her what he can and no longer loves chess the way she does. He gives her a final book and warns her to be careful with the pills before moving out.
At the U.S. championship in Ohio, Beth meets Benny again. Both advance through the competition, but informal speed games leave her repeatedly losing money to him. She suspects he is trying to undermine her confidence. The tournament final turns out differently: Beth defeats Benny and earns an invitation to Moscow. Over drinks afterward, he questions her drinking and offers to train her in New York. Beth accepts, agreeing to work with the rival who has just become another potential teacher.