Tensions quietly simmer in episode 9 as Carrie and Aidan find themselves navigating familiar territory — doubt, discomfort, and the shadow of past relationships. When Carrie agrees to participate in a book panel alongside Duncan — a fellow writer and former flame — she sees it as a harmless professional engagement. But Aidan feels otherwise. His unease isn’t loud or dramatic, but it lingers, casting a subtle shadow over their moments of joy.
The episode masterfully explores the quiet complexities of trust and insecurity, raising a question neither wants to ask out loud: Can we ever truly move on from the past? As the two spend time apart, both are left to confront the unresolved echoes of their history. Carrie wants Aidan to trust her choices. Aidan needs reassurance that history won’t repeat itself. What unfolds is a poignant study of love tested not by betrayal, but by memory.
Back to Square One doesn't offer easy answers. Instead, it leans into the uncomfortable truth — that even in love, some ghosts are harder to silence than others.
Aidan’s jealousy grows at the book panel

During the panel, Carrie and Duncan speak about writing and storytelling. The room is friendly, but Aidan’s face shows concern. He asks Carrie later why she accepted the invitation. Carrie reminds him that Duncan is just a colleague.
In And Just Like That, this scene highlights how small moments can build into bigger worries. Aidan’s tension is gentle at first, but grows as he watches them talk.
Carrie feels the strain of defending her past

Back at home, Carrie tries to explain why she trusts Duncan. She tells Aidan she only values him now. Still, Aidan wonders if she ever shared more with Duncan. Carrie feels drained by the same questions.
She gently says that the past was a different life. In And Just Like That, this moment shows the quiet hurt that comes when someone doubts your honesty.
Miranda, Charlotte, and Seema add depth to the story

While Carrie and Aidan face their issues, Miranda tackles a tough court case that challenges her ethics. Charlotte juggles her children’s needs and her hopes. Seema reflects on her future after seeing a friend get engaged.
These subplots run alongside Carrie’s story in And Just Like That. They remind viewers that each woman faces her crossroads in life.
And Just Like That, Season 3 Episode 9 ends without easy answers

At the close of Episode 9, Carrie and Aidan sit in silence. Neither yells nor storms off. Instead, they share a look that says more than words.
Carrie realizes Aidan may never fully let go of the past. Aidan realizes he needs to learn to trust. In the show, this quiet ending shows that some problems do not have quick fixes.
What does this mean for the finale episode?

With only one episode left this season, fans wonder if Carrie and Aidan can heal old wounds. And Just Like That has often asked whether love can overcome lingering doubts.
Now, viewers wait to see if trust can finally win out. The show proves that the hardest battles are often fought in silence rather than in arguments.