Chapter 21

"Of course!" Amber agreed after giving it some thought. "I'll listen to Mommy! When outsiders are around, I'll call you Lottie and pretend I'm a relative's child." When Charlotte saw how intelligent and adorable she was, her heart melted. She hugged and kissed Amber. "My sweetie is so smart!" Then she lifted her up, dried her off, and carried her back to the bedroom to sleep. The next morning, after breakfast, Charlotte prepared to head to her research institute. Before leaving, she reminded her daughter, "Amber, I'll be busy this afternoon and won't be able to come home for lunch, but I'll try to come home early for dinner." Amber nodded obediently and said sweetly, "Don't worry about me, Mommy! I've already planned my activities. I'll have Mrs. Jones and the bodyguard take me out. I even found a bunch of restaurants to try. If they're good, I'll take you there next time!" Charlotte couldn't help but giggle at Amber, whose eyes were sparkling with excitement at the mention of f