Page 163 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

"I will," Caspian promised.

His large hand covered hers on her stomach, warm and gentle through the fabric of her gown.

"I'll come back as quickly as I can," he said.

"I know you will."

Caspian leaned down and pressed a kiss to her belly, his silver hair falling forward. "Papa will be back soon," he murmured. "Be good for your mother."

Carol felt tears prick her eyes at the tenderness in his voice.

When Caspian straightened, she cupped his face and pulled him into a proper kiss—deep and full of everything she couldn't quite put into words.

"Be careful," she whispered when they broke apart. "Please, be careful."

"Always," Caspian promised.

◆◆◆

An hour later, Carol stood in the courtyard with Shadow and Mochi at her feet.

The troops were assembled—one hundred and fifty men in full armor, horses stamping and ready. Edwin was already mounted, checking supplies and giving quiet orders.

Caspian emerged from the armory in his battle gear. Dark metal armor that seemed to absorb light, perfectly fitted to his tall frame. Both Wintersbane and Frostreaver hung at his sides. His silver hair was tied back, his expression set in the cold, focused lines of The Butcher of the North.

But when his eyes found Carol across the courtyard, his expression softened immediately.

He crossed to her in long strides.

"I don't know how long I'll be gone," Caspian said. "Several days at minimum. Possibly longer depending on what we find."

"I'll be here when you get back," Carol said, trying to keep her voice steady.

Caspian pulled her into his arms, careful of her belly, holding her close. Carol pressed her face against his armored chest, breathing in the familiar scent of him beneath the metal and leather.

"Come home to me," she whispered. "To us."

"I will," Caspian promised. "Nothing could keep me away."

His hand moved to her belly again, rubbing gently in slow, soothing circles. "Papa will be back soon, Caelan. I promise."

Carol felt her throat tighten with emotion.

Caspian stepped back slightly, then crouched down to where Shadow and Mochi waited.

The shadow wolf had grown significantly in the past weeks—already the size of a large dog, with massive paws that promised even more growth to come. Mochi had reached nearly four feet in length, his Dreamweaver markings distinct and beautiful.

Caspian scratched Shadow behind the ears, and the wolf's tail wagged enthusiastically. Then he stroked Mochi's head, earning a pleased purr.

"Take care of your mother while I'm gone," Caspian told them seriously, as if they could understand every word. "Keep her safe. Both of them safe."

Shadow barked once, as if acknowledging the order. Mochi rubbed against Caspian's armored leg.

Caspian stood and moved to his horse—a massive war stallion, black as midnight, trained for battle.

He mounted in one smooth motion, settling into the saddle with practiced ease.

But before he could signal the troops to move, he looked down at Carol one more time.