Page 192 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

"And those are death flags," Missy added, surprisingly serious. "Big ones. The game doesn't like it when people mess with the Chosen Heroine."

"I know," Carol said. "But it's not my problem anymore."

She stood, smoothing her gown. "I warned her. I tried. That's all I can do. Whatever happens now is on her."

"You've done your duty as family," Lumi said gently.

"More than she deserved, honestly," Missy muttered.

Carol took a breath and headed toward the door. "Come on. Let's get back to the ball. Caspian is probably looking for me."

"And you don't want to miss the cake service," Missy said, perking up.

Despite everything, Carol smiled. "No. I definitely don't want to miss the cake."

She left the guest room and headed back toward the ballroom, her sprites invisible beside her.

Lucinda had made her choice.

Carol had made hers.

And she knew which one of them was going to end up happier.

Chapter 42

Cake Fixes Everything

Carol made her way back to the ballroom, her conversation with Lucinda already fading from her mind.

She'd done what she could. Warned her cousin. That was enough.

Now, she had more important priorities.

Cake.

The dessert table was magnificent—a long stretch of pristine white cloth laden with an impressive array of sweets. Tarts, pastries, petit fours, candied fruits, and most importantly, cakes.

So many cakes.

Carol's eyes lit up as she surveyed the selection. Chocolate cake with rich ganache. Raspberry cake with delicate cream filling. Vanilla cake decorated with edible flowers. Tea-flavored cake with subtle floral notes. Cinnamon cake dusted with sugar. Caramel cake drizzled with sauce. Strawberry cake topped with fresh berries. Lemon cake with tangy frosting.

She was eating for two. This was practically a medical necessity.

Carol gathered a plate—then a second plate—then decided she needed a third plate to properly sample everything. She made her selections carefully, taking a slice of each flavor that called to her, then found a small table near the edge of the ballroom.

The perfect spot. Close enough to the desserts for easy access, but far enough from the dancing that she wouldn't be bothered.

She settled into her chair with a contented sigh and picked up her fork.

The chocolate cake was first. Rich, decadent, absolutely perfect.

Carol closed her eyes and made a small sound of pleasure.

Heaven. Pure heaven.

She was reaching for the raspberry cake when she became aware of whispers nearby.

Opening her eyes, Carol noticed several groups of nobles watching her. Not subtly, either. They were staring openly, leaning close to each other and murmuring behind fans and gloved hands.