Chapter 138. Cookies and Milk Please

Author’s POV

“But you’re still my daughter, you know,” Mei said to Charlotte, her voice trembling.

Charlotte let out a bitter laugh. “A daughter you couldn’t love or protect.”

Mei nodded slowly. “I was wrong… I’ve been a bad mother.” Tears glimmered in her eyes.

Not just glimmered—they pooled, and for a moment, they looked painfully real.

Both Charlotte and Leo stilled.

“I sincerely apologize, Charlotte,” Mei continued, her voice soft and raw. “I was hurt… you remind me of him, and I hated you for that. I’m a bad mother to you— I won’t deny it. But give me a chance, baby. I promise, from today, I’ll be better.”

Leo barely held back a scowl. Charlotte’s eyes widened; she wasn’t used to seeing this version of her mother.

Robert, too, was stunned.

Wow… she’s a good actress. That almost felt too real, he thought.

Charlotte exhaled softly, uncertain whether to feel relieved or suspicious.

Leo held her a little tighter. “Wh