Bad Girl

Dorothy Haley and Edna Driggs are introduced as store models, first seen in bridal clothes at their workplace on a sunny afternoon. They discuss life beyond the shop and reveal their independent spirits. This opening scene sets the modern city mood and the bond between the two women.

Dorothy fends off her boss who tries to pressure her into a ride by claiming to be married to a prizefighter. She uses the bluff to deflect the advance and protect her dignity. The moment showcases Dorothy's quick wit and street-smarts that will color her romances.

Dorothy and Edna head to Coney Island for a day out, enjoying the sea air and lighthearted amusements. The outing underscores Dorothy's longing for romance and independence. It also sets the stage for meeting someone memorable.

During the return steamboat ride, the two women bet about attracting a specific man's attention, and Dorothy teases him with a ukulele. The man, Eddie Collins, is initially grouchy but gradually catches interest. He ends up accompanying Dorothy to her home, sparking a growing connection.

Eddie works in a radio shop and harbors a dream of owning his own shop someday. He has been saving toward this goal, showing ambition beyond romance. His steady nature complements Dorothy's impulsiveness and helps ground their relationship.

Eddie forgets a date, and Dorothy tracks him to his boarding house where they end up staying together until 4 a.m. The night deepens their bond, even as it foreshadows forthcoming complications. Morning brings a mixture of joy and anxious questions about their future.

Eddie walks Dorothy home and, despite her fear of her abusive elder brother, proposes marriage as a solution. Dorothy joyfully accepts, seeking stability amid uncertainty. The proposal launches a chain of events that will test their resolve.

Dorothy's elder brother calls her a tramp and evicts her from home. Eddie quickly helps arrange a new place to live, and the couple proceeds with a marriage, facing social stigma together. The early married life is strained by financial pressures and family disapproval.

Ten weeks later, Dorothy confides to Edna that she is pregnant, and she hesitates to tell Eddie because he plans to open a new shop. She suggests returning to work instead, worried about finances and status. The news forces the couple to navigate conflicting dreams and responsibilities.

Eddie misinterprets Dorothy's desire for security and cancels the shop plan, instead buying a lavish new apartment and furnishings. His decisions reflect his fear of inadequacy and his wish to provide an image of success. Dorothy's anxiety grows as their future becomes unpredictable.

When the baby arrives, both assume the other is unhappy about it, widening the rift between them. Their misread emotions fuel resentment and distance just when they should be closest. The domestic friction underscores how fragile happiness can be.

Eddie stays out late boxing to earn money for the obstetrician, keeping his sacrifice hidden from Dorothy. He is pummeled in a prizefight, and Dorothy misreads his bruises as proof of a barroom brawl. The misunderstanding adds emotional strain until the truth is finally revealed.

Their son is born, and the truth about Eddie's sacrifices clears the air between them. Dorothy's anger fades as they realize they need each other, and they decide to return home together to raise their child. The family begins a renewed life, grounded in love and shared responsibility.