As a TV snob, I stand by the claim that The White Lotus is one of the best shows to ever grace our televisions (sorry, I don’t make the rules). Mike White, the creator, writer, and director behind the dark comedy, once again gives us a front-row view of humanity’s deepest and darkest sins. The show is like therapy, really; I always learn at least 10 new things about life while watching. Plus, every season is infused with a little death and a whole lot of analysis about the human condition. What more could you want in a TV series?

In honor of the season 3 finale, there’s one relationship dynamic I can’t stop thinking about (and no, I’m not talking about that family dynamic). It’s the girl trio consisting of Jaclyn (Michelle Monaghan), Laurie (Carrie Coon), and Kate (Leslie Bibb). We know that Mike White often draws inspiration for his characters based on real people he crosses paths with, and I think he’s definitely trying to tell us all something about Jaclyn, Kate, and Laurie. The way I see it, the real villain of season 3 isn’t exactly one character—it’s the three of them and their toxic friendship trio. Let’s dive in.