Page 85 of The Villainess Chose Naps Over Death Flags

"That would be unfortunate," Caspian said. "I'd have to find someone else to name my rescued creatures."

"And who would spend ten thousand gold crowns redecorating?" Bea added, fully smiling now.

"Exactly," Caspian said. "Very practical reasons to keep her alive."

Carol buried her face in her hands. "You're all terrible. Every single one of you."

But she was smiling when she said it.

As dinner wound down and servants cleared the plates, Jasper stood and stretched.

"We should let you both rest," he said. "It's been a long day for everyone."

"Will you be staying longer?" Caspian asked.

"A few more days, if that's acceptable," Bea said. "We'd like to see more of the estate. And spend time with Caroline."

"You're welcome to stay as long as you like," Caspian said. "The estate has plenty of room."

"Thank you, Your Grace," Bea said. Then, more softly, "For being patient with us tonight. We were... concerned."

"Understandably so," Caspian said. "You're welcome to assess the situation as long as you need to."

"I don't think we need much longer," Bea said, glancing at Carol with warmth. "We can see she's happy here."

"I am," Carol confirmed. "Really, truly happy."

Jasper moved to her side and pulled her into a quick hug. "Good," he said quietly. "That's all we wanted. For you to be happy."

Bea hugged her next. "He's not what I expected," she whispered in Carol's ear. "But he's good for you."

After her siblings left for their rooms, Carol remained in the dining room with Caspian. The servants had finished clearing and departed, leaving them alone.

"That wasn't as terrible as I feared," Carol said.

"Your brother threatened to fight me."

"Only a little bit," Carol said. "And you joked about it. Which I think won him over, actually."

"Did it?" Caspian asked.

"Yes. Bea too. She likes you."

"She approves of the decorating expenses."

"She approves of how you treat me," Carol corrected. "The decorating is just a bonus."

Caspian stood, and Carol realized how close they were standing. She had to tilt her head back to meet his eyes.

"Did I pass their assessment?" he asked.

"I think so," Carol said. "They'll probably stay a few days to be sure, but... yes. They can see I'm happy."

"Are you?" Caspian asked. "Happy?"

"Yes," Carol said simply. "Very much so."

"Good," Caspian said. "I'm glad you're home when I return from campaigns."