Content warning: The Chapters 6-8 Analysis section of this guide includes references to violence.

Mary catches Kate staring at Anthony; she says it is not their business how Anthony behaves, but Kate insists it is their business if he wants to marry Edwina. Mary leads Kate to meet Violet Bridgerton. They thank her for inviting them, and Violet introduces one of her daughters, Eloise. Kate thinks Eloise is probably the same age as Edwina, and she likes her instantly. Mrs. Featherington catches the Sheffields and expresses her surprise to see Kate in attendance given Whistledown’s coverage of the incident with Newton at the park. Mary defends Kate by saying the whole incident was of so little significance she was surprised the column even mentioned it at all.

Kate brings Mary and Mrs. Featherington a drink, and quickly leaves for the hallway. Kate has a few moments alone before she hears Anthony’s voice, and she realizes that he will soon be out in the hallway. Kate quickly darts into the closest room and shuts the door behind her. As her eyes adjust, she realizes that she is in an office. Suddenly, she hears the doorknob click, and she realizes that Anthony and Maria, the opera singer, are moments away from entering the room.