Episode 2 of Bridgerton Season 2 opens with Lady Whistledown's keen eye turning towards Edwina Sharma and her infamously prickly sister, Kate. Kate, swift to react, immediately calls out Anthony's arrogant antics and shuts the door firmly on his advances, determined to protect her sister from the clutches of this year's diamond.
Meanwhile, Eloise is consumed by Whistledown's latest missive, unable to share Pen's optimism that things are on the verge of change. Her curiosity piqued, Eloise delves deeper into the mystery of Whistledown's identity, noting the particular paper and printing company used. With a sense of determination, she sets out to track down the printing press.
Upon arriving at the address, Eloise spies the insignia on the door, confirming she's on the right trail. She dismisses the worker outside, later revealed to be Theo Sharpe, with a wave of her hand. He grudgingly hands her a flyer for Women's Rights before making his exit.
The new Lord Featherington's choices for the house are questionable at best, including transforming the morning room into a gambling den. Much like the Bridgertons, the focus turns to the royal races, drawing a crowd of eager spectators. Lady Danbury arrives in a stunning red dress, stealing the show.
As the excitement builds, Thomas Dorset escorts Kate, but her mood is soured when Anthony appears, persistent in his attempts to court her sister. Despite Kate's disapproval, Anthony manages to secure a seat next to Edwina, the two of them watching the race together, much to Kate's chagrin.
Despite some of the participants scoring significant victories, the races unfolded unexpectedly, as Kate valiantly attempted to safeguard Edwina from her own shadow. Eventually, Edwina found herself standing before Queen Charlotte, who had chosen her to be a diamond with a precise and profound intention. The Queen's ultimate goal was to unveil the identity of Lady Whistledown, and a crucial part of her plan involved utilizing Edwina, knowing that the elusive writer would desperately seek access to her. Consequently, the Queen resolved to keep a watchful eye on Edwina from that moment onward.
Anthony, reeling from yet another rejection by Edwina - this time after appearing at her doorstep with a steed and misinterpreting her earlier infatuation with a novel - struggled to devise a strategy to capture her heart. Meanwhile, the evening at Lady Danbury's was abuzz with an array of eligible bachelors, each armed with their unique gimmicks and seductive techniques in an attempt to woo Edwina. However, none seemed to be effective as she forced a smile through the ordeal. After a chance encounter with Penelope, who she admired for her vibrant yellow dress, Edwina caught up with Colin. Only to be disappointed as he gently placed her in the friend zone, acknowledging her as a treasured confidante rather than a potential romantic partner.
As the evening drew to a close, Anthony arrived late to the scene, deciding to read aloud a letter he had composed for Edwina. However, these were not his own words, and he eventually abandoned the pretense of being someone he was not. Anthony spoke from the depths of his heart, attempting to be authentic and exposing his vulnerabilities for all to witness. He promised Edwina that when duty and action called, he would be there for her, but he could not guarantee that he would love her in the way she desired.
Meanwhile, Kate attempted to shield her sister, but Edwina was captivated by Anthony, and the pair soon found themselves engaged in conversation. As they spoke, Kate's gaze lingered on Anthony, and the two locked eyes in a prolonged stare before she finally turned away.
Danbury tried to persuade Kate to see things differently, while Penelope realized that she was increasingly close to being discovered. Eloise had discovered the printing house and decoded the telltale "K" on the letters, leaving Penelope with a dilemma. She decided to try and rectify the situation, but her efforts were interrupted when she was spotted at the market by Madame Delacroix.
As the episode drew to a close, Queen Charlotte received a list of names and accompanying pictures of all those who had conversed with Edwina. Among them was Penelope, and the tension mounted as the royal court prepared to deal with the revelations that were sure to come.
