Page 208 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

No more constant border defense against corrupted hordes. No more watching the miasma creep closer each season. No more endless, grinding battles against Blightspawn that regenerated faster than they could be killed.

Yes, they'd still need to guard the borders against regular threats—bandits, wild beasts, the occasional territorial dispute. But not the Blight. Not the corruption that had consumed so much of his life.

"That is excellent news," Caspian said, his voice rougher than he intended. "Thank you for bringing it."

"There will be celebrations in the capital," the messenger added. "His Majesty invites all nobles to attend the victory ceremony in one month's time."

"We will send our response," Caspian said. He glanced at Caroline, who was extremely pregnant. "Depending on our circumstances."

"Of course, Your Grace." The messenger bowed. "I'll take my leave. Congratulations to you both on your impending arrival as well."

Edmund showed the messenger out.

The moment the door closed, Caroline set down the grape she'd been holding and turned to look at Caspian fully.

"Does this mean you'll be home more?" she asked.

That was her first question. Not about the kingdom's victory, not about the historic defeat of the Blight, not about Percival and Rosalie's heroic achievement.

Just whether her husband would be home more.

Caspian felt his chest tighten with emotion.

"Yes," he said quietly. "Much more."

Caroline's face lit up. "Perfect."

She wrapped her arms around his neck—as much as her pregnant belly allowed—and hugged him tightly.

Caspian held her close, one hand splayed protectively over where their son grew.

"I'm so glad," Caroline whispered against his shoulder. "I'm so glad you won't have to fight that anymore. That you'll be safer. That you'll be here."

Not celebrating the kingdom's victory.

Celebrating his safety. His presence. Their future together.

"I'll still need to patrol the borders," Caspian said. "Still need to train the troops, maintain the defenses. But not like before. Not the constant campaigns."

"Good," Caroline said firmly. She pulled back to look at him, her amber eyes bright. "Because Caelan is going to need his father around. And I need my husband."

"You have me," Caspian promised. "Always."

She kissed him then, sweet and soft and full of relief and joy.

When they broke apart, she was smiling. "We should celebrate."

"The kingdom is celebrating," Caspian pointed out.

"I meant here," Caroline said. "At Frostholme. Our people have been defending the borders too. They deserve to celebrate."

Caspian considered. "A feast?"

"A proper celebration," Caroline agreed. "In a few days, once word spreads. Food, music, dancing. Let everyone enjoy this victory."

"That sounds appropriate," Caspian said.

Caroline settled back against him, reaching for the fruit platter again. "Here. Have another strawberry. We're celebrating."