Page 112 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

"You should rest," Caspian said finally, though he made no move to release her. "Tomorrow will be demanding."

"So should you," Carol pointed out.

"I will," Caspian promised. "After I finish reviewing these security arrangements."

"Always working," Carol teased gently.

"Someone has to keep you safe," Caspian replied. "Especially now that I know you care about my safety too."

Carol smiled and rose on her toes to press one more quick kiss to his lips. "Goodnight, Caspian."

"Goodnight, Caroline."

She left his study feeling warm and happy and more in love than ever. Tomorrow, they'd face the northern nobility together.

Tomorrow, she'd prove she'd changed.

Tomorrow, everything would begin.

But tonight, she'd given her husband a gift that carried all the feelings she was still learning to express.

Protection. Care. Love.

And judging by the way he'd kissed her, he understood perfectly.

Chapter 24

Capitalism Has Entered the Fantasy Realm

Carol returned to her chambers still floating on happiness.

The pendant. The kiss. The way Caspian had looked at her when she'd said she wanted him to come home safely.

I'm glad you're mine.

She touched her lips, smiling at the memory.

"Someone's in a good mood," Lumi observed from her perch near the window. The angel sprite's golden glow brightened with amusement.

"She gave him the present," Missy crowed from the headboard. "And they kissed! I can smell the romance from here."

Carol felt her cheeks warm. "We may have kissed."

"May have?" Missy cackled. "You're practically glowing. You're all lovey-dovey and googly-eyed."

"I am not googly-eyed," Carol protested, though she couldn't stop smiling.

"You absolutely are," Lumi said gently. "It's sweet. You're happy."

"I am happy," Carol admitted, sinking onto her bed. "Is that strange? In my old life I was so overworked and exhausted, and then I woke up here as Caroline who was miserable, and now..."

"Now you're actually living instead of just surviving," Lumi said gently.

"And you're married to a man you actually like," Missy added. "Who brings you puppies and lets you spend his money and kisses you in gardens."

"And studies," Lumi added. "Don't forget the study kiss."

Carol buried her face in her hands. "You two are terrible."