Page 183 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

"I do," Caspian admitted.

A knock at the door interrupted their banter.

"Enter," Caspian called.

A servant stepped in, bowing respectfully. "Your Grace, a royal messenger has arrived with a letter for you."

Caspian's eyebrows rose. "A royal messenger? Show him in."

The messenger entered moments later—wearing the formal livery of the royal household, carrying a sealed letter with the royal crest prominent on the wax.

"Your Grace," the messenger bowed deeply. "I bring an invitation from His Royal Highness, Crown Prince Alexandros Vaelindor."

He presented the letter formally.

Caspian accepted it, broke the seal, and read.

Carol watched his expression shift from curiosity to something warmer—genuine pleasure.

"What is it?" she asked.

Caspian looked up. "Prince Alexandros is having his birthday celebration. He's turning twenty-four. The festivities will be held at the royal palace in one month's time." He glanced back at the letter. "It's a formal ball and week-long celebration."

"Oh," Carol said.

Her mind immediately went to the guest list.

Percival would definitely be there. He was a noble and a hero.

Rosalie would be with him—the Chosen Heroine.

And Lucinda... Lucinda would absolutely be there, probably still scheming.

Carol's stomach twisted slightly.

"We don't have to go if you don't want to," Caspian said, reading her hesitation.

"No," Carol said quickly. "No, we should go. Prince Alexandros is your friend. Your close friend. Of course we should attend."

She meant it. Caspian's friendship with the Crown Prince was important. She wouldn't let her own discomfort with certain attendees get in the way.

"Are you sure?" Caspian asked. "It's a long journey, and you're four months pregnant."

"I'm pregnant, not fragile," Carol said. "And besides..."

Her mind was already working.

The capital.

THE CAPITAL.

"What?" Caspian asked, seeing her expression change.

"The capital has shopping," Carol said slowly. "Really good shopping. The fashion district. The merchant quarter."

"Yes..." Caspian said cautiously.

"And sightseeing," Carol continued, warming to the idea. "The Great Library. The Cathedral of Light. The royal gardens. The entertainment district. The food district—oh, the food district!"