Page 106 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

When they finally pulled apart, Carol was definitely breathless.

"We should probably head back," Caspian said quietly. "Before your siblings send a search party."

"They're probably watching from a window," Carol said. "Taking bets on whether you'd actually kiss me."

"Would they?"

"Absolutely," Carol confirmed. "Bea would bet yes. Jasper would bet no out of protective brother instinct."

"Then Beatrice wins," Caspian said, a hint of amusement in his voice.

"She usually does," Carol agreed.

But neither of them moved to leave.

Instead, Caspian pulled her close, wrapping both arms around her. Carol settled against his chest naturally, her cheek resting against the fabric of his coat, his heartbeat steady beneath her ear.

Together, they stood in the moonlit garden, Carol tucked securely in his embrace as they watched Mochi and Shadow explore the bushes. The night air was cool and peaceful around them.

Carol felt Caspian's chin rest gently on top of her head, his arms warm and secure.

This, she thought. This was what she'd been missing. Not dramatic declarations or grand gestures. Just... this. Quiet comfort. Genuine connection. Someone who held her like she mattered.

"Thank you," Carol said softly.

"For what?"

"For giving me a chance," she said. "For being patient. For... for this."

Caspian's arms tightened slightly around her. "I never expected this."

"Expected what?"

"You," Caspian said quietly. "Being kind. Actually wanting to be here. When we married, I thought... I resigned myself to a lifetime of coldness. But now—" He paused. "Now you're different. And I'm grateful for it."

Carol felt her throat tighten with emotion. He'd expected a lifetime of misery. Had resigned himself to being trapped with someone who hated him. And now she was here, actually trying, and he was grateful.

"I'm glad I'm here too," Carol said honestly.

They stood together in the garden, Caspian's warmth surrounding her, the moonlight painting everything in silver, and Carol felt something settle in her chest.

Happiness.

Real, genuine happiness.

And for the first time since arriving in this world, she felt like she was exactly where she was supposed to be.

Chapter 22

Event Planning: Duchess Edition

Carol arrived at the study mid-morning, her mind still pleasantly distracted by memories of the previous evening. The garden. The moonlight. Caspian's arms around her.

She shook her head slightly, forcing herself to focus. There was work to be done.

Bea was already there when Carol entered, examining fabric swatches spread across the large oak table. Sterling stood nearby, a leather-bound ledger in hand, his expression as composed as ever.

"Good morning," Carol said, taking her seat.