A lot of Bridgerton viewers are searching Google for “what is a ward” right now, so let’s fill you in on the meaning behind the term. The first half of season four just dropped on Netflix and introduced viewers to Sophie Baek, played by newcomer Yerin Ha. Sophie, a maid, is the new love interest for Luke Thompson‘s Benedict Bridgerton and they have a Cinderella story throughout the season. In Bridgerton, a ward is referring to someone who is being looked after. Sophie is referred to as a “ward” because Penwood didn’t want to admit she’s his child.