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Chapter Text

INT. BRIDGERTON HOUSE HALLWAY - DAY

HYACINTH carries a large basket of children’s toys down the hall, passing SOPHIE

SOPHIE

Good morning Hyacinth, I was just coming to help you dress, but do you need help with that?

HYACINTH

I’m just bringing these to the drawing room, I will be babysitting my cousins today, and Lord Kent and his siblings are coming over as well. Their parents are going to be attending the Queen’s garden party.

SOPHIE

That sounds like a lot of responsibility for one girl to take care of all that.

HYACINTH

Well it’s really just Thomas, Edmund and John to worry about. The others can take care of themselves I believe.

SOPHIE

Well, if you need help, I will be here.

HYACINTH

That is very kind of you, Miss. Sophie. I will be back in a few moments to get dressed.

SOPHIE

I’ll wait for you in your room.

TRANSITION TO ENTRYWAY

WILL and ALICE MONDRICH enter with NICKY, DAISY, and JOHN.

VIOLET descends the stairs and heads towards the family.

VIOLET 

Good day Will, Alice, and of course Lord Kent. Daisy, John. Hyacinth is in the drawing room with lots of toys and games for you all.

ALICE

This is very kind of Hyacinth to watch over all the children while we attend the party. Are you sure she is up to it?

VIOLET

Her lady's maid Sophie will be helping her as well. But Hyacinth was so excited to try her hand at taking on some responsibility with the children.

ALICE

I’m sure she will be great with them.

COLIN and PENELOPE (with THOMAS) enter from the doorway.

VIOLET

Oh Penelope and Thomas are here!

COLIN

You used to be that excited to see me, your own son, mother.

PENELOPE

(laughing)

Good day.

HYACINTH descends the stairs.

HYACINTH

Oh good, you’re all here! We have much to do in the drawing room! I have planned many games!

HYACINTH approaches PENELOPE and takes THOMAS, carrying him up the stairs. All the children follow her.

WILL

I suppose now we can all depart for the palace for yet another party.

PENELOPE

The Queen has been keeping our social calendar’s quite full this season.

ALICE

A lot to write about, I suppose?

PENELOPE

Yes. Anywhere the debutante of the season might be, I need to be as well. 

(laughing)

And I thought my days of keeping an eye on suitors were done, apparently not so.

[ALL LAUGH]

ALL move towards the front door, and exit.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

EXT. QUEEN’S PALACE GARDEN (PARTY) - DAY

GUESTS entering the garden and walking about, talking and enjoying refreshments.

BENEDICT, KATE, ANTHONY, WILL, ALICE, VIOLET, PENELOPE, and COLIN enter and move about the crowd.

[MONTAGE of party guests conversing and details of the party splendor]

BENEDICT takes a glass of wine from a tray as a servant passes.

BENEDICT

Thank you.

The SERVANT gives a strange look to BENEDICT.

BENEDICT walks towards KATE and ANTHONY, and accidentally bumps into another SERVANT with a tray, knocking it down. BENEDICT immediately bends down to help the servant gather the broken glass.

SERVANT

Please sir, you will cut your hand.

BENEDICT

It is no trouble, my fault entirely.

SERVANT

It is my duty to clear it sir.

Party GUESTS look at the encounter and whisper amongst themselves.

ANTHONY approaches BENEDICT and pulls him up from the ground.

ANTHONY

It is very kind of you, brother, to offer help, but you are making a scene.

BENEDICT

I am just trying to offer my assistance.

ANTHONY

What has gotten into you? You are crawling around on the floor at a party. Have you had too much to drink already? We just arrived.

BENEDICT

Well now the servant is crawling around on the floor because of my clumsiness.

ANTHONY

Yes, we have all seen it. Just let the man do his job. I think you are embarrassing him more than you have already embarrassed yourself.

BENEDICT

Apologies, I do not know what came over me. I do not wish to cause any more consternation for the poor fellow, or for you.

BENEDICT walks off, slightly slumped.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

EXT. QUEEN’S PALACE GARDEN (PARTY) - DAY

LADY DANBURY stands at a garden display, sipping lemonade.

PENELOPE approaches.

LADY DANBURY

Good day, Mrs. Bridgerton.

PENELOPE

Good day, Lady Danbury, are you enjoying the party?

LADY DANBURY

It is a fine party, I suppose. Nothing to write about. Wouldn’t you say?

PENELOPE

I likely will anyway, I cannot possibly leave out a section on the Queen’s own garden party.

LADY DANBURY

Speaking of the Queen, she is anxious to see more coverage of her jewel in your column. Some encouragement of certain available gentlemen to find interest in her selection.

PENELOPE

I am not sure if there is any more to write about her at the moment, Lady Danbury. I am trying my best to encourage her, but the marriage mart is just not falling in her favour this season.

LADY DANBURY

You mean, not in the Queen’s favour? That is why she has requested your assistance in the matter.

PENELOPE

I can only write what I see, what I know, Lady Danbury. I cannot force a match where there is not one. The Queen surely knows that.

LADY DANBURY

Ah, yes. We have seen quite a few young ladies turn from what the Queen thinks is a splendid match instead to a different suitor because of that pesky love issue.

PENELOPE

It is a fool's errand to try to force a match where there is not a true connection. After getting to know Posy as well as I can these past months, I fear that she just does not know herself well enough to even recognize what love might mean for her.

LADY DANBURY

I do not think the Queen will be happy to hear such a grim assessment of her jewel.

PENELOPE

It is not meant as a slight to the Queen, but surely she must understand that no one, not even her royal majesty can force a heart to feel something it does not. Or stop that feeling once it takes hold.

LADY DANBURY

Yes. Queen Charlotte may not be happy to hear your opinion, but I do believe she will smartly accept it. And appreciate your efforts with Miss. Li as well.

PENELOPE

It was very pleasant to get to know her this year, although I think she has tired of my friendship as of late.

LADY DANBURY

I’m sure she will come back around when she sees what she has lost in you. You are a true wonder, Penelope.

PENELOPE

Thank you, Agatha.

LADY DANBURY

Enjoy the party, as best you can.

PENELOPE

I will.

LADY DANBURY leaves towards the palace.

COLIN approaches PENELOPE and they walk off together.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

BRIDGERTON DRAWING ROOM - DAY

SOPHIE stands in the middle of the room, with a scarf wrapped around her eyes.

The CHILDREN are running around the drawing room, hiding behind furniture. SOPHIE moves slowly and carefully around the room with her arms outstretched.

SOPHIE

Blind man …

ALL CHILDREN

BLUFF!

SOPHIE turns towards DAISY and takes a few steps

SOPHIE

Blind man …

ALL CHILDREN

BLUFF!

SOPHIE turns around and all the CHILDREN switch positions again.

SOPHIE

Blind man …

ALL CHILDREN

BLUFF!

[Children laughing]

BENEDICT enters the room, SOPHIE is turned away from the door. BENEDICT puts his finger to his lips to tell the children to not speak, smiling.

SOPHIE

Blind man …

BENEDICT

(cheerfully)

BLUFF!

SOPHIE spins around.

BENEDICT looks directly at SOPHIE, wonder in his face.

[BEGIN FLASHBACK SEQUENCE]

EXT. BRIDGERTON HOUSE PRIVATE TERRACE

BENEDICT is kissing the Lady in Silver, and then pulls back to look at her masked face.

[END FLASHBACK SEQUENCE]

BENEDICT

(sternly)

Hyacinth, the Mondriches are here, take Daisy, Nicky, and John down to them will you.

HYACINTH

Of course … Come on Edmund, you come too.

HYACINTH picks up THOMAS and takes EDMUND’s hand. DAISY, JOHN, and NICKY leave the room with her.

SOPHIE

Benedict?

SOPHIE tries to untie the scarf from her head, she is struggling with the knotted fabric.

BENEDICT

Yes. It’s me. And now … I can see it’s … you.

SOPHIE

Yes, of course it’s me. I was helping Hyacinth babysit.

BENEDICT

No, not you, Sophie. It’s you … from the masquerade ball.

SOPHIE struggles more fervently with the scarf.

SOPHIE

Will you help me with this, please?

BENEDICT

Is it uncomfortable, being blinded? Blinded by someone you care about and they will not free you from your torment?

SOPHIE

What are you talking about, Benedict?

BENEDICT steps directly in front of SOPHIE.

BENEDICT

All this time, you knew who I was, and you hid in plain sight. You were the woman from the ball, the dance lesson … the best night of my life. And you said nothing. Like you wanted to forget it ever happened?

SOPHIE finally releases the knot and the scarf falls from her face. Tears well in her eyes.

SOPHIE

I never wanted to forget that night. I could never forget that night. But I knew a night like that could never again happen to a girl like me. So yes, I said nothing.

BENEDICT

Why? Why would you keep that a secret?

SOPHIE

When you did not recognize me that night at the Cavender party I thought I was safe. I did not know what was to happen between us. Me, a servant, and you, a Bridgterton.

I could not have ended up in a worse position. So I just kept it to myself.

BENEDICT

You kept it from me, you mean. Our history together, as if it meant nothing. Do I truly mean nothing to you? That you wish to hide it?

SOPHIE

You mean everything to me, Benedict. But I know I cannot have you. Not after that night, not now. Life, society just does not work that way for me, for us. So yes, I kept it to myself, the magic, the pain.

To protect myself, and you.

BENEDICT

You had no right. To make that decision on my behalf. You speak of pain, but you can never understand what pain you have caused.

BENEDICT storms out of the room.

SOPHIE stands in shock.

END SCENE 

Chapter Text

EXT. MAYFAIR STREET SHOPPING AREA - DAY

ELOISE, FRANCESCA, and MICHAELA walk along the street, casually looking in shop windows as they talk.

ELOISE

I am so happy to see you again Michaela, what brings you to London this time?

MICHAELA

Do you not believe me when I say I just missed seeing you both?

ELOISE

For some reason I do not believe that my face is worth a fortnight carriage trip.

MICHAELA

Well, you are correct Eloise, as always. The Highlands are much too bitter cold in the winter, so I am planning to spend the coming season here in the south, the Oxfordshire estate is close by. But it was worth the extra day ride to see you both.

MICHALEA looks at FRANCESCA closely.

FRANCESCA

We are quite happy you did, as is John. I forgot how cozy our foursome was these past months. It really made it feel like our home to have family.

MICHAELA

It was a lucky thing that we all got on so well, the four of us stuck in the quiet of the hills.

ELOISE

I never felt stuck, but that is because of the good company. And Francesca, I do thank you again, for letting me tag along. I know it was to be your and John’s honeymoon period. I hope I did not ruin that for you.

FRANCESCA

No, not at all. We had plenty of time to have our wedded happiness, you were no trouble at all.

MICHAELA

I only wish I had come down to Mayfair sooner, I heard the masquerade was quite the event, Eloise.

ELOISE

For some, yes. I spent most of the night hiding from my mother who welcomed me back home with a list of suitors I might dance with.

MICHAELA

Did you not feel the least bit lonely for some revelry after so long away?

ELOISE

No. I missed my brothers, my best friend, my own room. But the eligible gentlemen of the Ton, never.

FRANCESCA

One day Eloise, you will find that someone that doesn’t make you detest the idea of marriage.

ELOISE

Maybe. Is it so terrible if I do not? I have so much else in my life, I have you. Our family, Pen, and now Michaela. Why complicate things by adding a random man into it, when I have all these wonderful friendships with such accomplished women.

FRANCESCA looks at MICHALA knowingly.

FRANCESCA

I am the last person that will tell you how to feel, and when to feel it Eloise, but promise me you will not close yourself off to the possibility?

ELOISE

I will promise you that much dear sister. Even after all this season has brought, I am not shutting the door on love entirely.

MICHAELA

Always good to keep your heart open to the opportunity.

The THREE ladies continue walking down the road.

FOCUS PULLS TO FULL STREET.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

BRIDGERTON HOUSE SOPHIE’S ROOM - EVENING

SOPHIE storms into her room and pulls her bag from under her bed. She begins to pack her things into the bag. She opens a drawer and looks at the dresses inside, her old ones she arrived with, and some new ones, hand-me-downs from the Bridgerton ladies.

SOPHIE packs up the older ones, and selects only one new one. She carefully folds the other new dresses and sets them neatly on her bed in a stack.

SOPHIE finds an old issue of Whistledown amongst her things and begins to read it. 

LADY WHISTLEDOWN (VOICEOVER)

It is with sadness and shock that I must announce the death of the Earl of Penwood. This news and his passing were reportedly quick, and his family, Lady Penwood and his two step-daughters are surely distraught. The news also leaves questions regarding the estate, as Lord and Lady Penwood never did produce an heir during their marriage. With this being such a tumultuous time for the Lady of the house, the uncertainty of the succession is surely another point of constrenation. This author wishes them peace and solace in their time of mourning.

SOPHIE crumples up the issue and screams. Tears form in her eyes.

SOPHIE

Is this what you wanted, father? To leave me like this? After all these years of knowing no love from you, but at least living the charmed life of a society girl. Why would you let me know of a possible future only to forget about me in the end? Your greatest cruelty indeed.

SOPHIE finishes packing her bag and storms out of her room.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT. BRIDGERTON HOUSE STUDY - EVENING

VIOLET is in the study, standing at the bookshelf.

SOPHIE enters, dropping her packed bags in the doorway.

SOPHIE

Lady Bridgerton? May I speak with you?

VIOLET

Of course Sophie, what is the matter? From your tone, this seems somewhat serious.

SOPHIE

I have come to give you my notice of leaving. I can no longer work for you, for your daughters. My apologies.

VIOLET

I do not mean to pry or meddle, but this is very sudden of you. Has something happened? Did the girls say something, did  they do something to mistreat you?

SOPHIE

No ma’am, not at all. The girls, yourself … Your whole family has been wonderful. I could not have asked for a nicer family to be employed with.

VIOLET

Then what troubles you? Why must you go, and so suddenly?

SOPHIE

I …

VIOLET

It’s Benedict, isn’t it? It has been quite plain to see for some time now.

SOPHIE

Why didn’t you fire me?

VIOLET

I like you … 

SOPHIE begins to cry quietly

VIOLET

You are the type of woman I would like for my son. Getting to know you, I could only wish that things, society, wasn’t so harsh as to make a match like yours seem so …

SOPHIE

Impossible.

VIOLET

There are things about you that don’t quite add up, Sophie. Is there something that you have not told me? Us, about your past?

SOPHIE looks up at VIOLET, catching her eyes. Then she looks away.

SOPHIE

I am not a suitable match for your son. And I really must go.

VIOLET

If that is your wish. Where will you go, dear?

SOPHIE

I have family ... outside of London.

VIOLET looks at SOPHIE with doubt.

VIOLET

Well you must take one of our carriages to your next place of stay

SOPHIE

I could not ..

VIOLET

You are my responsibility and I would not want you to come to harm. And your goodbyes? To the girls?

SOPHIE

I do not think I can …

VIOLET

I understand. I will have a carriage brought around for you. And I should give you your pay and discharge fee now. It is the least I can do.

VIOLET walks towards the door, passing SOPHIE. SOPHIE turns towards VIOLET.

SOPHIE

Lady Bridgerton … I must thank you. For welcoming me into your home, your family so readily. You were kinder than you ever had to be.

VIOLET

You are still welcome here …

SOPHIE

I must go.

VIOLET continues to walk towards the front door.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

EXT. STREETS OF MAYFAIR - NIGHT

A Bridgerton Carriage travels quickly through the streets of Mayfair, heading towards central London. The carriage stops near the outskirts of the city, and the footman helps SOPHIE out of the carriage. She grabs her bags and heads into the dark street.

TRANSITION TO A STOREFRONT WITH A SIDE STAIRWAY AND DOOR

SOPHIE knocks on the locked door loudly, several times. Waiting impatiently at the door.

The PENWOOD COOK answers the door.

COOK

Sophie!? What are you doing here? Is everything alright?

SOPHIE

No. it is not alright. I must leave town … again.

COOK

Miss. Posy had told us you were back in Mayfair. I almost didn’t believe her. She said you were at Bridgerton house?

SOPHIE

She did not tell Lady Penwood did she? Or Rosamund.

COOK

No, she only let the staff know so that we would not worry. We hadn’t heard from you in so long. We are all happy you are safe, well.

SOPHIE

I am not so safe and well now. I just took leave from the Bridgertons’ I can no longer work for them, or anywhere in Mayfair.

COOK

Did something happen with them? I’ve never heard neary a bad word about working for them. But I suppose these families are all the same.

SOPHIE

No, it is nothing like that, but I cannot risk being where Araminta might find me any longer.

COOK

Now come in, girl, you’ll stay here tonight, and we will keep you hidden.

I'll talk to Mrs. Gibbons in the morning and we can sort something out for you. Anything for our girl.

COOK guides SOPHIE up the stairs with her bags.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT. BRIDGERTON HOUSE KATE AND ANTHONY’S ROOM - NIGHT

KATE lays in bed, hands on her baby bump. ANTHONY enters and places his hands on her bump as well.

He leans in and kisses KATE sweetly.

ANTHONY

My beautiful wife, are you well? I’m not used to seeing you turn in for bed so early.

KATE

I am quite well, just tired, I suppose.

ANTHONY

Well, I do not think anyone can fault you for that. Indeed, it is probably time you start to cut back on your attendance at social events and the like.

KATE

Anthony, I am not that tired. I just need a bit of extra rest today. I do not need to send regrets for any invitations we have received.

ANTHONY

As long as you are sure you are up for them. Hosts should get used to your absence in the coming months anyway, with the baby on the way. You will be expected to decline.

KATE

Why should I be expected to decline if I am well? I do not think I should need to absent myself from society for so long.

ANTHONY sits on the bed next to KATE.

ANTHONY

It is just how it is, isn’t it? After a few months when a woman is with child, and others can tell, usually wives become more … secluded.

KATE

I believe I will be disregarding that Mayfair society practice entirely, Viscount Bridgerton. I will not hide myself away.

ANTHONY

I do not know if that is a rule as much as a tradition. It is just not common to see a lady who is with child at a ball or a party. 

KATE

I suppose it will be a shocking sight for many in the coming months then, that I might like to dance with my husband while carrying his child. What should be so wrong with that?

ANTHONY

Nothing. Are you prepared for the withering glances though?

KATE

You and I are prepared to weather anything together, are we not?

ANTHONY

Of course.

ANTHONY leans in to kiss KATE again. He begins to untie his cravat.

ANTHONY

I think it is time I get into this bed with you now, though.

ANTHONY climbs next to KATE and they kiss again.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT. PENWOOD HOUSE POSY’S BEDROOM - DAY

POSY enters the room with an issue of Whistledown. She sits on her bed and begins to read it.

PENELOPE (VOICEOVER)

Dearest Gentle Reader, The marriage season continues as the weather turns colder. One heart that does not chill is our Queen’s affection for her selected jewel. Miss. Posy Li is biding her time to select the most eligible and worthy suitor in the Ton. She is wise to bide her time and make a scrupulous decision, a perfect match takes time. Gentlemen should be warned that while this warm, kind, and clever young lady may be shy, she is not hiding. Once she finds that one special admirer all others will surely regret their delay in making their intentions known. After this jewel has found her setting, envy for the wearer will be swift, and deserved.

POSY smiles brightly, then stands from her bed and walks to her desk, opening the top drawer to reveal stacks of Whistledown editions. She carefully places this new one on top, and closes the drawer.

POSY walks to her wardrobe and opens it, moving aside dresses to uncover a dark red one, she pulls it out and hangs it by her dressing table, admiring it.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT. FEATHERINGTON HOUSE STUDY - DAY

COLIN sits at his desk, writing.

PENELOPE enters.

PENELOPE

Here you are! I’ve wondered about this whole house looking for you.

COLIN

I wasn’t really hiding, you know.

PENELOPE

Well I know that, you just don’t normally review the ledgers until Friday.

COLIN

Were you hoping to sneak something into them? 

PENELOPE

No. I was actually looking for my husband, not his paperwork.

PENELOPE walks over to stand beside COLIN in his chair.

COLIN

Well I am found.

COLIN wraps his arms around PENELOPE’s waist. He looks into her eyes.

COLIN

How are you?

PENELOPE

Quite well, and how are you?

COLIN

I am splendid.

PENELOPE leans over and kisses COLIN.

PENELOPE

Is there anything I can do to make you even more … splendid?

COLIN

So you have really come to offer distraction.

PENELOPE

[Laughs]

What are you working on that I might distract you from?

COLIN

I am writing. A new book, perhaps.

PENELOPE

Oh, I have noticed you jotting notes down into your journal lately. Another set of travel adventures?

COLIN

No, this is more like … fiction.

PENELOPE

How … creative. What is it about?

COLIN

It’s a story of a boy, who … notices a girl that lives across the square from his house.

PENELOPE

(pause)

Oh … and it is … fiction?

COLIN

Well  … it will be loosely based on real events, I suppose.

PENELOPE

I’m sure it will be … perfect.

COLIN

Well, my editor is very stringent, so it better be.

COLIN stands and wraps PENELOPE in a hug. He then lifts her onto the desk, and begins to kiss her.

PENELOPE pulls away gently.

PENELOPE

Maybe I should not have come to distract you then, if you are ever to finish it.

COLIN

I am always in need of a little more inspiration.

COLIN and PENELOPE begin kissing again.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT. PENWOOD HOUSE KITCHEN - DAY

MRS. GIBBON’S enters the kitchen as the COOK is preparing some food. 

COOK

Mrs. Gibbons!

MRS. GIBBONS

What is your excitement about? You know I’m quite busy today since we’ve had three staff quit this week.

COOK

Well you should tell the misses to stop throwing shoes at them.

MRS. GIBBONS

I don’t want to get one thrown at me!

COOK

This is serious …

(lowers voice)

Miss. Posy was correct, Sophie is back in Mayfair! Well she was.

MRS. GIBBONS

What do you mean, was?

COOK

She is staying at my apartment by the markets, in the city centre. She was working for the Bridgertons but she had to leave. She wouldn’t say why.

MRS. GIBBONS

Is she alright? What happened?

COOK

She is fine, so she says. She wouldn’t say what happened, just that she needs to leave town again, and fast.

MRS. GIBBONS

She is on the run from Viscount Bridgerton now? I can’t believe she would do anything to warrant that.

COOK

No, I think she is still on the run from Araminta, still scared of what might happen if any word … got out.

MRS. GIBBONS

I shall send a letter to some family I have out in the country, they have some friends that work near the border. Surely that must be far enough to keep her safe.

COOK

I will let her know tonight. She will be so relieved.

FOCUS pans to the kitchen door, where POSY is standing, listening to the conversation.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT. PENWOOD HOUSE HALLWAY OUTSIDE KITCHEN - DAY

POSY turns and runs down the hallway to the stairs.

FOCUS follows POSY up the stairs.

POSY runs into ROSAMUND.

ROAMUND

Ouch. Would you get your head out of the clouds! You are never paying attention!

POSY

Apologies Rosamund, I was just in a rush.

ROSAMUND

And where are you rushing too? Is there a suitor here  for us to meet?

POSY

No. Nowhere … I was … just going to my room.

ROSAMUND

You are such a terrible liar, why would you be rushing nowhere? What do you know?

ROSAMUND sticks her finger sharply into POSY’s chest.

POSY looks at her with guilt and fear.

ROSAMUND

What is it? If you do not tell me, I am going to tell mother about your Lady Whistledown collection. I know she told you to get rid of them all, and I know you did not!

POSY

No! My name is them! Why do you care so much?

ROSAMUND

What is it that you care so much about that you are running around this house for? Did you hear a juicy piece of gossip you are going to report to your new best friend? Tell me what it is!

POSY

It’s nothing like that.

ROSAMUND

So it is something!

POSY

It …

ROSAMUND

(yelling)

Mother!

POSY

Don’t, please!

ROSAMUND

Then tell me!

POSY

Fine! It’s … Sophie. She is back in Mayfair. She was working for the Bridgertons but now she is leaving town again. She is staying with our cook’s family.

ROSAMUND

And mother does not know?

POSY

I do not understand why you and mother should care so much about her. Just let her leave town and have her life.

ROSAMUND

You are so simple, you do not understand anything, do you Posy?

POSY

What is there to understand?

ROSAMUND

You know Sophie and Papa are … what if Sophie marries and has a boy. That could be the new Lord Penwood! You wouldn’t want that to happen to us, would you? To be embarrassed and ruined like that?

POSY

Sophie would not ruin us, I do not think Sophie would ever tell anyone about that, about us.

ROSAMUND

See, as I said, you are so simple.

ROSAMUND turns around and walks down the hallway quickly.

ROSAMUND

(yelling)

Mother! I have news!

TRANSITION TO ARAMINTA’S BEDROOM

ARAMINTA is in her closet selecting shoes.

ARAMINTA

What is it, girl? Why are you yelling? It is uncouth.

ROSAMUND enters the closet, POSY stands just outside the closet door.

ROSAMUND

Mother, this is important.

ARAMINTA

Out with it then?

ROSAMUND

Posy says that Sophie is back in Mayfair, she is staying with our cook’s family.

ARAMINTA pushes past ROSAMUND and looks at POSY angrily.

ARAMINTA

Since when? When did she arrive?

POSY

I … I … I just heard now, she just arrived at cook’s last night, and she is leaving town so you do not have to worry about anything.

ARAMINTA takes her wedding ring off her finger and walks to her dressing table, opening a jewelry box. She puts the ring under several other items in the box and slams it shut.

ARAMINTA storms out of the room.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT. MODISTE SHOP

ALICE MONDRICH stands at the mirror while MMD. DELACROIX pins adjustments for her dress.

ALICE

I know you were showing me some lovely new lace pieces to add on to this one, but I think we should keep things simple on the alterations for now.

MMD. DELACROIX

Why the sudden change of heart? If you are worried if they are still in fashion, they very much are, my Lady.

ALICE

No, it is not the style that has me worried. The Kent estate feels in a precarious position as of late, and I want to be sensible with our spending until the Queen settles what could be done.

MMD. DELACROIX

That does sound very perilous indeed. And very understandable. I will only do what is absolutely necessary on this one, and I think I may have some remnants from some other ladies gowns that I will not need to charge you to use.

ALICE

Oh Genevieve, I cannot ask you to do that for me, we are not out of the Ton just yet.

MMD. DELACROIX

Please allow me to extend you this kindness, from one working woman to another. Even though you do not work any longer, you still have the spirit and kindness of a woman that knows the value of craft and dedication.

ALICE

Thank you.

MMD. DELACROIX

I know you do not want to spend more than you should, but perhaps a way that you might solidify your hold on your title is not to shrink from it, but rather to boldly declare it?

ALICE

What can you mean?

MMD. DELACROIX

The Ton loves a party, and they love to give the hosts of those parties praise, especially in front of the Queen. Why not remind them all who was named the Baron of Kent, before anyone else can question it?

ALICE looks at MMD. DELACROIX with a knowing smile.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

EXT. OUTSIDE THE COOK’S APARTMENT - EVENING

ARAMINTA and several POLICE CONSTABLES stand outside the door.

POLICE bang on the door several times

ARAMINTA

I swear to you, she is here. And she took my things.

A YOUNG MAN opens the door and looks at the crowd at the door waiting.

MAN

Yes? What is all this about?

POLICE CONSTABLE

We’re here looking for a girl

ARAMINTA

(interrupting)

Sophie Baek. I know she is in there!

POLICE

Miss. Baek, we were told by house staff at Penwood that she is staying here.

MAN

Yes, but what should the police want with her? She’s a perfectly nice girl.

POLICE

If she doesn’t come down now, we will go up and get her ourselves.

SOPHIE slowly peeks down the stairs. ARAMINTA is peering into the doorway and sees her.

ARAMINTA

Sophie! I see you! Come down now!

POLICE

Miss. Baek, do not run, it will not end well for you.

SOPHIE appears in the doorway

SOPHIE

Araminta, the police? Really? 

ARAMINTA

Yes the police, you stole from me! Did you think I would forget.

SOPHIE

Stole? From you? What abou…

ARAMINTA

Jeweled shoe clips, don’t deny it.

SOPHIE

Those glass forgeries …?

ARAMINTA

And my wedding ring!

SOPHIE

Your ring? I did not …

POLICE

Alright Miss, you are coming with us. We’ll sort this all out at the jailhouse.

A POLICE CONSTABLE grabs SOPHIE by the arms and begins to drag her, SOPHIE fights back.

SOPHIE

I did not steal her ring! I did not steal it from her!

ARAMINTA

See, she is fighting because she has no proof, she can only run to escape.

The struggle continues as SOPHIE is loaded into a Police Carriage.

The Carriage departs the market area and ARAMINTA walks towards her own waiting carriage.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

EXT. FEATHERINGTON HOUSE GARDEN - MORNING

COLIN and BENEDICT are donning their gear for fencing.

PENELOPE and ELOISE sit on a blanket nearby with Thomas.

COLIN

Bridgerton rules? No slashing.

BENEDICT

Yes, of course.

COLIN

Is that a new saber? The handle is quite ornate. Italian?

BENEDICT

Are you quite finished delaying?

COLIN

Is this to be a friendly match?

BENEDICT

Yes, brother.

COLIN

Alright then, En Garde.

[WHILE FENCING]

BENEDICT

Point!

COLIN

Touche.

BENEDICT

Let’s go again then.

[BENEDICT SLASHES AT COLIN, COLIN FALLS]

COLIN

Whoa! You are in a terrible mood today. I have a wife and child that need me, brother.

Is this about a woman?

BENEDICT

It’s not my fault you are out of practice, you’ve been so busy with your wife as of late.

[COLIN STANDS, FENCING ACTION CONTINUES]

COLIN

You avoid the question, it is about a woman then. Is that why you’ve run off to Bloomsbury then too?

BENEDICT

Run? No, it was just time for me to move on.

COLIN

Move on from what? Or from who?

BENEDICT

From … being irresponsible. It was time I get serious about my life, I suppose. Stop chasing dreams.

COLIN

But we all love that you are a dreamer Benedict. Your art, your lady in silver. I hope you are not giving up hope on all that.

BENEDICT

Oh, I am done with the lady in silver, that is for sure.

COLIN

So why don’t you do us all a favour and just marry the girl? 

BENEDICT

Marry who?

COLIN

Sophie, of course. You think we have not noticed it. Whatever it is you want to call it between you two.

BENEDICT

She is a ladies maid, for our sisters nonetheless.

COLIN

Who cares? I know you are not the type of person to really care about what a bunch of London socialites think about your life. If anything, it gives you all the more reason to avoid them.

BENEDICT

I fear it is a bit more complicated than that.

COLIN

How so? 

BENEDICT

The masquerade ball, my lady in silver. It was Sophie. This whole time.

[COLIN STOPS FENCING]

COLIN

That cannot be … a servant sneaking into a society ball. How clever.

BENEDICT

The cleverness is not what has wounded me, it is that she did not tell me we had met before, that she was my mystery woman I hunted for all that time. She lied about who she was when we first met.

COLIN

What did she say when you found out? Did she have a good reason?

BENEDICT

In truth, in my anger, I am not sure I gave her a proper chance to explain herself. But how could I love someone that kept such a secret about themselves?

BENEDICT looks towards PENELOPE

BENEDICT

How did you deal with it? Learning you had been lied to, forgiving that lie?

COLIN

I eventually understood why she had deceived me. To protect herself, and to protect me. In a foolish way to protect us. Which obviously wasn't the right choice. But I came to understand the decision and accepted her apology.

Can you do that? Forgive Miss. Baek?

BENEDICT 

After learning she is a different person? I do not know.

COLIN

Is she truly a different person? Or just a more complex person? A whole person. No one is only their best side, Benedict. You have to love all of them if you are to love them at all. That is what true love is. Loving all the complicated things about someone. Even when it is imperfect.

BENEDICT

When did you get so grown up, brother?

COLIN

When you started turning to me for advice.

Now, are you going to go tell that girl how you feel?

BENEDICT

If she will accept the many apologies I owe her.

BENEDICT drops his FOIL, and hugs COLIN

COLIN

What are you still doing here? Go get her!

BENEDICT runs off towards the house.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

EXT. FEATHERINGTON HOUSE GARDEN - DAY

PENELOPE and ELOISE sit on a blanket with THOMAS, talking and playing.

A SERVANT approaches with PORTIA following behind.

SERVANT

Ma’am, your mother is here for you.

PENELOPE

Oh, I was not expecting her. Good day mama.

The SERVANT exits.

PORTIA

Good day Penelope, Eloise. I wish I came under happier circumstances.

PENELOPE stands and approaches PORTIA

PENELOPE

What is it?

PORTIA takes PENELOPE’s hand

PORTIA

It is your cousin, Marina. I know she did not leave Mayfair on the best of terms, especially with you …

PENELOPE

That is over now, I do not hold grudges, we were practically children. And I think she endured far worse than I did.

 PORTIA

Well it is all in the past and it does not matter now. Penelope, she has died.

PENELOPE

What? But how?

ELOISE, holding THOMAS, and steps towards PENELOPE.

PORTIA

She apparently fell in the lake near her house, and then fell ill with influenza. She was weak from the cold water and could not recover. I received the letter from Sir Philip this morning.

PENELOPE looks at ELOISE.

PENELOPE

We must tell Colin.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT. BRIDGERTON HOUSE DRAWING ROOM - DAY

VIOLET sits working on embroidery.

BENEDICT runs into the room.

BENEDICT

Mother? Have you seen Sophie? Miss. Baek? I must speak with her.

VIOLET

I’m afraid you may be too late, my dear. She left yesterday evening.

BENEDICT

Left? To where? For how long?

VIOLET

Sophie quit yesterday. It was clearly very sudden. What happened?

BENEDICT

She did not tell you?

VIOLET

I surmised some of what happened, but she did not want to say a lot. She did not want to hurt you, tarnish your name, the Bridgerton name.

BENEDICT

I do not care about my reputation, my own name. Do you really believe that the family would suffer?

VIOLET

I do not know. But it does not trouble me much. Our family will always have … this family. Support, love, acceptance.

Are you here to seek my permission, Benedict?

BENEDICT

Possibly? Your blessing, perhaps?

VIOLET

(smiling)

You do not need that, but you do have it, if she is the one you love. And you can bear the inevitable sneers of some.

BENEDICT

I have finally realized that although society may not accept us, may in fact ostracized us, we do not need to associate with those that would make her feel less than.

VIOLET

I wish only for your happiness, and Miss. Baek’s.

BENEDICT

I would rather live a private life with Sophie, than a public life without her. If the Ton will eschew us out, that I will happily remove myself from it entirely.

Now, where did she go last night?

[AUDIO FADES] 

VIOLET is explaining where Sophie left to (inaudible).

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT. FEATHERINGTON FRONT ENTRY - DAY

[LOUD BANGING FROM FRONT DOOR]

PENELOPE runs down the stairs.

BENEDICT runs into the hallway from the front door.

PENELOPE 

Benedict! What are you doing here?

BENEDICT 

I need your help! Sophie left yesterday, she quit. And mother said she took a Bridgerton carriage outside of Mayfair, to the central London markets. You are the only person I can think of that would be able to help me find her there. Find someone that may not want to be found.

PENELOPE 

Let me get my coat.

TRANSITION TO TOP OF STAIRS, FOCUS FOLLOWS COLIN DECENDING THE STRAIRS

COLIN runs down the stairs to the ENTRYWAY to find PENELOPE dressed in her cloak and BENEDICT waiting.

COLIN

Pen, where are you going?

BENEDICT 

We're going to find Sophie in London proper.

COLIN

(to BENEDICT)

You're taking my wife where?

BENEDICT 

She's the only person I trust to help.

PENELOPE 

Colin, I know what I am doing, I know the area, the people.

COLIN

But it's dangerous, Pen. 

(Pause)

I'm coming with you.

END SCENE

Chapter Text

INT.CARRIAGE - DAY

PENELOPE, COLIN, and BENEDICT sit in the carriage, all looking tense.

PENELOPE

Have the driver take us to exactly where they dropped off Sophie yesterday, I will start asking vendors at the markets if they might have seen where she departed to.

BENEDICT

Yes, already have told them I want us dropped on the exact cobblestones where she was left.

COLIN

But do you think anyone will remember her?

PENELOPE

Trust me, a Bridgerton carriage dropping some young lady off in the street, that would attract such notice. Someone will surely at least know of her first stop once she departed.

BENEDICT

Do you think she would be in danger because of that? Because of the Bridgerton name?

PENELOPE

I do not believe she will be, she is a housemaid, Sophie is resolute. I trust that anyone that should try to approach her would be in more peril than she.

BENEDICT

That’s my girl.

COLIN

We’ll get to the market and ask about her at the stalls.

PENELOPE puts her hand on COLIN’s thigh.

PENELOPE

I shall approach the sellers, alone. I know a few of them, they may recognize me. That might assist in finding out more about Sophie’s whereabouts.

You two may be a … distraction.

BENEDICT

(narrows his eyes)

Who are you, sister?

COLIN

Lady Whistledown.

Carriage Stops.

TRANSITION TO EXT. MARKET SQUARE

PENELOPE, COLIN, and BENEDICT exit from the Carriage.

PENELOPE

Stay here.

COLIN

Pen … 

PENELOPE

Fine … stay back, at least. You two attract a lot of notice.

PENELOPE walks ahead and approaches a vendor stall.

PENELOPE (Irish accent)

Good day, I’m looking for someone specific that was at the market yesterday.

VENDOR

You’re not looking for my wares?

PENELOPE (Irish accent)

Unfortunately not today, I’m looking for a girl. A young lady. She would have arrived in that carriage last evening?

PENELOPE indicates towards the Bridgerton carriage.

VENDOR

Ah, yes. I do remember that carriage thundering up here yesterday, causing a stir.

PENELOPE (Irish accent)

And what of its passenger?

VENDOR

The Penwood girl?

PENELOPE (Irish accent)

Penwood?

VENDOR

Yeah, she was a servant at the Penwood house. I hadn’t seen her in months and then there she was, looking mighty upset.

PENELOPE (Irish accent)

Do you know where she is now? Where she went yesterday?

VENDOR

I don’t know for certain, but I heard that she was staying with the Penwood’s cook. She has a flat a few streets over.

PENELOPE (Irish accent)

Do you have the address?

FOCUS pulls from PENELOPE and the VENDOR.

TRANSITION CUT to COLIN and BENEDICT, STANDING IN THE BACKGROUND

PENELOPE approaches COLIN and BENEDICT.

BENEDICT

So? Did he know something?

PENELOPE

She was here yesterday and is staying with the Penwood house cook, her family at least. A few streets away - she may still be there.

COLIN

Let’s go then.

TRANSITION CUT TO EXT. DOOR of COOK’s BUILDING

PENELOPE knocks on the door. COLIN and BENEDICT stand  nearby.

After a few moments a young man opens the door.

MAN

Yes ma’am? Are you lost?

PENELOPE

No, I’m looking for Sophie, Miss. Sophie Baek.

MAN slumps in the doorway.

PENELOPE

Is she here?

MAN

She was here … she was staying with us, arrived two days ago.

PENELOPE

And now?

MAN

I’m so sorry miss, she was … she was arrested this last night.

BENEDICT approaches quickly.

BENEDICT

Arrested? For what!?

MAN

They said something about stolen shoes … or clips … and a ring. Sophie said it wasn’t true, but they weren’t having it. They took her away right quick.

BENEDICT turns and starts to run back down the street towards the carriage.

PENELOPE

Thank you so much for your help.

MAN

I don’t think I was very helpful but …

PENELOPE takes COLIN’s hand as they both turn to follow BENEDICT.

END EPISODE