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'Bridgerton' Season 4 Part 2 trailer teases devastating death and we're scrambling to figure out what's next

'Bridgerton' Season 4 Part 2 could possibly deviate from the source material and end the story of Benedict and Sophie on a not-so-happy note.

Will their fairy-tale romance of Benedict Bridgerton and Sophie end in a happily-ever-after or a tragic death? That is the question 'Bridgerton' fans are asking after watching the trailer for Season 4 Part 2, which dropped on February 13. Eagle-eyed fans noticed members of the Bridgerton family, including Benedict, Francesca, and Violet, dressed in black, a traditionally reserved color for mourning. Some die-hard fans have speculated that either the king or John Stirling, Earl of Kilmartin, could be the one to pass away. Season 4, centered on the romantic quest of the third Bridgerton brother, is adapted from Julia Quinn's third novel, 'An Offer from a Gentleman,' part of the 'Bridgerton' book series. 

Stirling eventually dies in the books, his death serving as a turning point in the development of his wife, Francesca's, bond with her cousin, Michaela. However, a split-second moment in the trailer shows Benedict, in Francesca's presence, screaming, "I've had quite enough of the demands of society," while both are seemingly dressed in black. It would be very odd for him to spill his love problems in front of his sister, who has just lost her husband. Others believe the King is the one to die, since the Queen had spoken of such an event a few episodes earlier. Whatever the case, the death of a major character seems unlikely as the series is squarely focused on the love story between Benedict and Sophie.    

Taking inspiration from the classic tale of 'Cinderella,' Benedict becomes mesmerized with the mysterious Lady in Silver after a chance meeting at the masquerade ball at the start of 'Bridgerton' Season 4. She leaves only her glove behind, prompting Benedict to search for her. He eventually learns that his paramour is the maid, Sophie Baek (Yerin Ha). Part 1 of Season 4 ends with Benedict asking Sophie to be his mistress, leaving her heartbroken. The reason is much more personal, as she was born out of a similar arrangement between her father, a wealthy lord, and her mother, a maid. On February 3, Showrunner Jess Brownell reflects on Sophie's state of mind by telling Tudum that, "the idea of being a mistress is the worst possible thing she could be asked. Despite societal rules, there is a part of Sophie that’s hoping that Benedict could see beyond [the ton] and that what they have is so special it could overcome the obstacles of class.”  

Set in Regency-era London, the latest season explores the class divide in the ton, forcing Benedict to choose between his heart's desire and the social status that supports his lifestyle. Created by Chris Van Dusen and currently led by showrunner Jess Brownell, Season 2 of the romance drama series is set to close the curtains on February 26, by dropping the remaining four episodes (#5-8) together on Netflix.