Page 161 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

"Among other places," Caspian agreed cheerfully. "But yes, that's certainly become a favorite location."

Lieutenant Marcus, sparring nearby, missed his strike entirely and nearly took out his partner. "I'm sorry, did our Duke just—"

"Yes," Edwin confirmed. "Yes, he did. Just accept it and move on."

The training session continued, and despite starting four hours late, Caspian pushed through every drill with his usual intensity.

But when it finally ended and the men began dispersing, Edwin caught his arm.

"Seriously, though," Edwin said quietly. "I'm glad you found this. Found her. You've been alone too long."

"I didn't know how alone I was," Caspian admitted. "Until I wasn't anymore."

"The Duchess—Caroline—she makes you happy."

"Deliriously so."

"Then she has my complete and eternal loyalty," Edwin said. "Any woman who can make The Butcher of the North show up four hours late to training with a smile on his face and jokes about his wife's needs deserves a medal."

"I'll let her know you approve," Caspian said dryly.

"Please don't," Edwin said quickly. "I'd like to maintain some professional dignity."

"Too late for that," Caspian pointed out. "You're the one who made the speech about Blightspawn invasions."

"That was comedy gold and you know it."

"It was ridiculous."

"And yet you're smiling," Edwin observed.

Caspian didn't deny it. "I have a lot to smile about these days."

"Good," Edwin said firmly. "You deserve it. All of it."

As Caspian walked back toward the main estate, he could hear the soldiers behind him still discussing the morning's unprecedented events.

"Four hours late!"

"Making jokes!"

"About his wife!"

"Did you see him smile? Like, actually smile?"

"The Duchess must be amazing."

"Or terrifying."

"Possibly both."

"Definitely both."

Caspian's smile widened.

Yes, he thought. Caroline was definitely both.

Amazing and terrifying and absolutely perfect.