A glove, a kiss and a forbidden love: 'Bridgerton' season 4’s Cinderella story will break you

The pause is utterly anticlimactic. How can Shondaland be so cruel as to string fans along with this steamy, Cinderella-esque romance, only to leave us hanging for a few weeks until “Bridgerton”  season four, part two, arrives?

But hooked, fans, myself included, certainly have been. 

The fourth instalment, based on Julia Quinn's “An Offer from a Gentleman”, centres on Benedict Bridgerton (Luke Thompson), the second Bridgerton son.

Wallowing happily in his debauched lifestyle, Benedict Bridgerton's attendance at the first ball of the season is a reluctant concession to his frustrated mother, Lady Violet Bridgerton (Ruth Gemmell).

Held as a masquerade, identities are hidden, but Benedict's status as an eligible bachelor sparks Queen Charlotte's (Golda Rosheuvel) hope that he will be this season’s ultimate catch.

Lady Whistledown (a title now not so secretly claimed by Penelope Bridgerton, played by Nicola Coughlan), however, remains unconvinced of the Queen's optimism, as she is aware of Benedict's lack of desire to settle down. Their opposing views lead to a wager between the two.

Meanwhile, Benedict is drawn to a mysterious young woman. They share a private moment on the terrace, dancing and eventually sharing a kiss.

Yet, as the clock strikes midnight - the moment when all masks are to be removed - she abruptly flees. All Benedict has left from their encounter is a single glove.

This brings me to the new Penwood family with Lady Araminta Gun (Katie Leung), who has been widowed twice, and her two daughters, Rosamund (Michelle Mao) and Posy Li (Isabella Wei), attending the ball. 

Rosamund, like her mother, is ambitious and focused on status and social climbing. Her sister, Posy Li, however, is more gentle and interested in finding true love.

Then there is Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha), who resides in the Penwood household. She is the daughter of Lady Araminta's second husband, the Earl of Penwood. 

After his death, Lady Araminta permitted Sophie to remain for "free" board and lodging, but only as one of the maids. Despite the hardships of her life, Sophie's noble background remains evident. She is highly educated, fluent in multiple languages, and even tutors Benedict in his French pronunciation.

Meanwhile, Lady Violet is delighted to hear that someone has captured Benedict’s attention and helps him on his quest to locate the mysterious woman he interacted with. 

As a result of this unfortunate turn of events, Lady Araminta discovers Sophie's secret attendance at the masquerade ball, revealing her deception, and consequently, Sophie is fired from her position.

Sophie's departure led to considerable turmoil when Lady Araminta began poaching replacements. This initiated bidding wars, prompting many staff to attempt to renegotiate their current salaries, causing widespread chaos across several households.

Of course, fate intervenes amid the upset: Benedict and Sophie cross paths once again when he defends her honour. They spend some time together, and he assures her he will help her find another job.

Although the romance is the main story arc this season, other supporting characters are grappling with their own challenges.

Queen Charlotte and Lady Danbury (Adjoa Andoh) are at odds after Lady Danbury announces she will not host a ball this season, stating instead her intention to travel.

The suggestion of finding a replacement lady-in-waiting is also not warmly received.

While Francesa (Hannah Dodd) and John (Victor Alli) are trying to figure out their rhythm in the bedroom, Lady Violet finally gives in to her growing attraction towards Marcus (Daniel Francis). 

Although feisty bookworm Eloise (Claudia Jessie) has resolved to live as a spinster, her mother is having none of it. 

With Sophie now employed by the Bridgertons, the tension between Benedict and her is taken up several notches. 

The undeniable chemistry is simmering, but what is the future for this forbidden high-society romance? With the Penwood family now right next door, how long can Sophie keep her past hidden?

Well, fans will just have to wait and see how this love story plays out. Of course, it won’t be without drama, tears and plenty of angst. 

Shondaland excels at telling stories, a fact delightfully evident in "Bridgerton". Each season of the show whisks fans away on an enchanting adventure, ultimately immersing them in intense romance and the escapism of a Mills & Boon novel.

From the exquisite casting to the stellar performances, direction, and costumes, everything about the production is sublime.

Thankfully, fans will be relieved of the agonising wait on February 26, when part two drops.

∎ “Bridgerton” season 4 is on Netflix. 

Rating: **** a standout series with exceptional qualities.