Page 169 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

On screen, Caspian was now dual-wielding while simultaneously controlling six floating stone spears. A massive Blightspawn—something that might have once been a bear—charged at him.

Caspian met it head-on, his swords moving so fast they blurred. Within seconds, the creature fell.

"He's barely even trying," Carol said, awed.

"The other Blightspawn are running away," Lumi pointed out.

She was right. The remaining creatures, seeing their numbers decimated so easily, were fleeing into the deeper parts of the canyon.

"Smart monsters," Missy commented.

Caspian didn't pursue. He cleaned his blades and sheathed them, then turned to assess his troops.

Everyone was fine. Not a single casualty.

Carol felt relief flood through her.

"See?" Lumi said gently. "He's perfectly safe."

"For now," Carol said. "But he'll be out there for several more days."

"Then we'll keep watching," Missy said, refilling her popcorn. "This is way more entertaining than I expected."

Carol had to admit, seeing Caspian in action was impressive. And terrifying. And somehow made her miss him even more.

But at least now she knew he was safe.

She could see him. Watch over him. Know that he was alive and well and—based on the efficiency with which he'd just easily destroyed over fifty Blightspawn—completely in his element.

"He'll be home in a few days," Carol said, more to herself than to the sprites. "And then we'll be together in our chambers. In our home."

She took a sip of her smoothie, eyes never leaving the screen where Caspian was now conferring with Edwin about their next move.

"Until then," Carol continued, "I guess I'm watching my husband like it's a theater performance."

"With unlimited snacks," Missy added.

"With unlimited free snacks," Carol agreed, popping a nacho into her mouth.

Shadow and Mochi settled at her feet, content with their healthy treats. Lumi and Missy flanked her sides, fully invested in the viewing experience.

And Carol sat in her comfortable lounging room, surrounded by her companions, watching her husband be absolutely magnificent at fighting monsters.

It wasn't the same as having him here.

But it helped.

And when she saw him execute another perfect dual-sword combination that made Edwin actually applaud, Carol couldn't help but smile.

"That's my husband," she said again, softer this time. "My strong, brave, absolutely terrifying husband."

"Who you miss," Lumi said knowingly.

"So much," Carol admitted. "But he'll be home soon. And I'll be right here, watching and waiting."

She settled deeper into her cushions, 3D glasses on, snacks arranged perfectly, pets at her feet.

"Come home safe, Caspian," she whispered. "I'll be waiting."