Page 116 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

Chapter 25

The Wedding Banquet

The morning of the banquet arrived with spring sunlight streaming through Carol's chamber windows.

She sat at her vanity while Daisy and Millie worked on her hair, their practiced hands weaving intricate braids and curls.

"You're going to be beautiful, my lady," Daisy said, her expressive face bright with excitement. "The most beautiful duchess in all the northern territories."

"The only duchess in the northern territories," Carol pointed out.

"Still counts," Millie said quietly, securing another pin with precise movements. "There. The foundation is set. Now for the finishing touches."

Carol watched in the mirror as her ladies-in-waiting transformed her appearance. The deep blue gown with silver embroidery hung ready on its stand, waiting. Her jewelry—sapphires and diamonds that had been in the Vanthorn family for generations—sat in their velvet cases.

"Are you nervous, my lady?" Daisy asked, adding a delicate silver hair ornament.

"Terrified," Carol admitted honestly.

Both maids paused, meeting her eyes in the mirror.

"You'll be wonderful," Millie said with quiet conviction. "You've changed so much these past weeks. Everyone can see it."

"The northern nobles don't know that," Carol said. "They only know my reputation."

"Then you'll show them the truth," Daisy said firmly. "You'll show them who you really are."

Carol hoped they were right.

After another thirty minutes, her hair was complete—an elegant upswept style with carefully placed curls framing her face and the silver ornament catching the light.

"Perfect," Daisy declared. "Now for the gown."

They helped her into the dress carefully, the rich blue fabric settling perfectly over her frame. The silver embroidery caught the light with every movement, creating an almost ethereal effect.

Millie fastened the buttons while Daisy adjusted the drape of the skirt.

"There," Millie said, stepping back. "You look like a winter queen."

Carol studied herself in the full-length mirror. The gown was stunning. The color made her skin glow and her eyes seem brighter. The cut was elegant without being ostentatious, refined without trying too hard.

She looked like a duchess.

"The jewelry, my lady?" Daisy asked.

"Yes, please."

They helped her with the sapphire necklace, matching earrings, and several delicate bracelets. Each piece was exquisite, clearly worth more than most people earned in a year.

"You're ready," Millie said softly. "Is there anything else you need?"

"No, thank you both," Carol said. "You've done beautifully. Please, go prepare yourselves for the evening. I know you'll be attending as well."

Both maids curtsied and left, closing the door behind them.

Carol waited until their footsteps faded completely.

Then she opened her virtual inventory.