WARNING: Spoilers ahead for The Handmaid's Tale season 6

The Handmaid's Tale took a surprisingly romantic turn this week, with Serena Joy (Yvonne Strahovski) being wooed by Commander Wharton (Josh Charles). Last week saw the pair dancing in New Bethlehem's streets, and this week, Commander Wharton went a step further by gifting Serena a library, reports the Mirror US.

This grand gesture was meant to signal his progressive stance on women's rights to read—a stark contrast to Gilead's oppressive laws that once cost Serena a finger. The romance escalated when Commander Wharton proposed to Serena, who hesitated but ultimately accepted, hoping for her fairy-tale ending.

However, fans are wary and have taken to social media to express their doubts about Serena's future. A Reddit user commented, "What a trap Serena is walking into. She laid out all her non-negotiables, yet she's still so naive to the reality that once she's married, she becomes property."

They continued, "She's had a taste of freedom, life outside the pressure of being a Gilead wife, and still, she chooses to walk right back into it."

Adding, "She was never going to be allowed to remain single for long, but watching her willingly step back into that world? Gag-worthy. Not surprising, though."

A second viewer expressed: "It's on brand for her. In heart of all hearts she is who she is. A religious zealot who still seems to believe in Gilead despite claiming that she's changed."

Meanwhile, a third fan remarked: "The super cheap courting that Serena fell for is........very cringe. And I just love that for her.

"Serena you are not a Disney princess don't do this," chided another, drawing comparisons to Beauty and the Beast.

Another chimed in with a hint of irony: "What do you mean? Disney princesses get given libraries all the time! Specifically in stories where they are also held hostage by abusive men. I think this time the story may unfold in reverse."

A different commentator weighed in: "Oh, I think she's gonna get exactly what she deserves from that man. He is not as innocent as he appears."

Someone else lamented Serena's choices: "Ah Serena, you never learn. You never will. You are trapped once again by your own making."

As the twists and turns of Serena and Commander Wharton's wedding loom, fans are left holding their breath to see how the story will develop.

Speculating from the season six trailer, a Gilead wedding seemed inevitable; now, audiences are eager to find out whether Commander Wharton can be trusted or if he harbours ulterior motives in pursuing Serena.

The Handmaid’s Tale season 6 will be coming to Prime Video and Channel 4 on May 3 in the UK