Page 196 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

"Your Highness," Caspian said, bowing respectfully. "Happy birthday."

"Oh, stop with the formality," Alex said, waving a hand dismissively. Then his gaze landed on Caroline, and his expression warmed with genuine interest. "And this must be the famous Duchess who accomplished the impossible. The reports didn't do you justice, my lady."

Caspian felt Caroline stiffen slightly beside him, but when he glanced at her, she was blushing rather than offended.

"Prince Alexandros," Caspian said formally, "may I present my wife, Duchess Caroline Vanthorn."

Alex took Caroline's hand and bowed over it with perfect courtly grace. "My lady, it is an absolute pleasure to meet you in person. I've heard remarkable things about the transformation at Frostholme. You must tell me—how did you win over my notoriously stoic battle brother?"

Caroline's blush deepened. "I... I just was myself, Your Highness?"

Alex laughed—a warm, genuine sound that made several nobles smile despite themselves. "I like her already." He looked at Caspian with a grin. "You're a lucky man, my friend."

"I'm aware," Caspian said dryly.

"Come," Alex said, gesturing toward the dais. "You must meet my parents properly. They've been curious about the duchess who captured the Butcher's heart."

He led them to where King Edric and Queen Marguerite sat.

King Edric Vaelindor was in his late fifties, with silver threading through his dark hair and the kind of face that inspired both respect and trust. He had the bearing of a man who had ruled wisely for decades.

Queen Marguerite was a few years younger, graceful and elegant in deep blue silk, her kind eyes taking in Caroline with genuine warmth.

"Your Majesties," Caspian said, bowing deeply. Caroline curtsied beside him.

"Duke Vanthorn," King Edric said, his voice dignified but warm. "It is good to see you away from the borders for once. You guard our kingdom well."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Caspian replied.

"And this must be your duchess," Queen Marguerite said, her eyes on Caroline. "We've heard much about you, my dear. The change in Duke Vanthorn has been... remarkable."

Caroline blushed again. "Your Majesty is too kind."

"Not at all," the Queen said gently. "It does our hearts good to see those who serve the kingdom find happiness as well. You are very welcome at court, Duchess."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Caroline said softly.

King Edric nodded approvingly. "We hope to see more of you both in the capital. It's important that our defenders know they have the Crown's support and friendship."

"We are grateful, Your Majesty," Caspian said.

After a few more pleasantries, Alex drew them aside, allowing other nobles to approach the King and Queen.

"You really did it," Alex said, his voice quieter now, more personal. "You actually found happiness."

Caspian glanced at Caroline, who was looking around the ballroom with interest, and felt warmth spread through his chest. "I did."

"I'm glad," Alex said seriously. "Truly. You've spent years fighting for this kingdom, sacrificing everything to keep the borders safe. You deserve to find someone who sees you for who you really are, not just the reputation."

"Caroline does," Caspian said simply. "She sees me."

Alex smiled. "I can tell. The way you look at her—I've never seen you like this. Relaxed. Content." He clapped Caspian on the shoulder. "It's good to see, my friend. Very good."

"Thank you, Alex."

"And the duchess," Alex continued, glancing at Caroline with approval. "She's lovely. Genuine. Not at all what I expected given the rumors about her before."

"She changed," Caspian said. "We both did."