Episode 5 opens with Penelope writing Lady Whistledown, as they show a flashback to the night before with Colin and Penelope entering Bridgerton House to tell the Bridgerton family of their engagement. The Bridgertons are all very happy with the news - except (unsurprisingly) Eloise. During a discussion between Eloise and Penelope we learn that Penelope still has not told Colin about her being Lady Whistledown, though she promises to do so. The next day we see everyone reading Lady Whistledown and learning of the engagement, making it clear that Penelope rushed home to write the column (even before Colin knew that it was her) seemingly trapping Colin with a public announcement without his knowledge. Lady Featherington finds out about the engagement via Lady Whistledown, not having been told by Penelope nor having Colin request permission as he should since Penelope is under age. With this news it does make it clear that Colin is not the only person that Penelope was manipulating with the rushed announcement, but also her mother, she made sure that Colin would not back out nor that her mother would deny permission.
- Kate and Anthony's return.
- Francesca and Benedict calling Kate sister was a lovely moment to show that Kate is truly a Bridgerton now. Also, Benedict introducing Kate as his sister to Lady Tilly Arnold.
- Kate and Anthony. Despite their very limited screen time they were magical on screen.
- John's adorable story and his anxiety when he first tried to tell it, and Francesca's patient encouragement.
- Penelope immediately reporting on her engagement Colin in Lady Whistledown, it came across as manipulative and a form of entrapment.
- Penelope not telling Colin that she is Lady Whistledown.
- The consent during the sex scene was a bit of good and bad. It was good they included consent, however, that it was Colin putting the onus on Penelope to stop, as opposed to giving Penelope the option to continue shows that Colin also has a slightly manipulative side. He essentially stated he would continue doing what he wanted unless she said to stop, rather than him stopping and letting her choose to continue. It is subtle but makes a huge difference in my opinion.