“Then I’ll send some people along with you. I don’t feel it’s safe for you and Mrs. Berry to travel alone.” Zachary’s sounded very determined.
“What’s there to worry about?” Charlotte hurriedly added, “Nobody would know if Mrs. Berry and I leave without making a big hoo-ha. On the contrary, it will attract a lot of attention if you send people with us.”
“Why are you so disobedient—”
“All right, all right. It’s time for me to get up. I promised to make the kids breakfast.” Charlotte got up and headed toward the bathroom resolutely. “You’ve promised me. Don’t go back on your words and change the plan.”
“…” Zachary knitted his brows. If it were in the past, he would have disregarded her protest and made the final decision domineeringly. However, being with Charlotte and the children had softened his temper. He was no longer overbearing with them. Instead, he treated them with respect, courtesy, and concern.
Therefore, he could only execute his plans in secret.
After breakfast, Charlotte informed the children that she was returning to the countryside with Mrs. Berry to handle some matters. She told them it would take some time for her to return and reminded them to obey their father.
Hearing that, Robbie asked anxiously, “How long will you be gone for, Mommy?”
“Probably two weeks, but maybe earlier. It depends on when I’m done with the matters,” Charlotte said gently, patting his head.
“Mommy, you have to come back early. I’ll miss you,” Ellie said adorably, tilting her head.
“Don’t worry. I’ll be back as soon as I’m done.” Charlotte kissed her little face.
“Mommy, are you and Mrs. Berry going to see Mr. Fergus and the others?” Jamie was peeling his hard-boiled egg. Having just had his milk, he had a milk beard around his mouth, looking incredibly adorable.
“I’ll go to pay respect to your Grandpa before visiting one of his old friends.” She handed Jamie a hot cross bunny. “I’ll be back as soon as possible. All of you must be obedient at home, understand?”
“Understood, Mommy!” they answered in unison.
“Mommy, when will you be leaving? Will we see you when we’re back from school?” Robbie furrowed his brows, seemingly reluctant for her to go. His intuition was stronger compared to Jamie and Ellie’s. There was a nagging feeling that if his Mommy left, he’d never see her again.
“I’ll attend a wedding with Daddy in the afternoon. After the wedding, I’ll come back for my luggage and leave. You probably won’t see me after school.” Charlotte caressed Robbie’s face gently. “But it’s okay. I’ll be back very soon,” she said in assurance.
“All right.” Robbie lowered his face dejectedly.
“Robbie, don’t be like that. I’ll only be gone for a few days,” she cajoled. “Daddy will be home with you.”
“Mm.” Robbie nodded. “Mommy, you have to be careful. If anything happens, you must give Daddy a call right away,” he reminded her in concern.
“I got it.” Charlotte pecked his forehead. “While I’m not around, you’ll have to protect yourself and your siblings, all right?”
“Yes, I will.” Robbie nodded solemnly.
“All right, hurry up and eat your breakfast. I will take you guys to school.” Zachary checked his wristwatch. “Ten more minutes,” he urged.
“Ah! Hurry up!” The children rapidly gobbled their food up before putting on their shoes and backpack.
Zachary carried the children out the door while Charlotte hugged them and said her goodbyes. The triplets exhorted once again, reminding her to return as soon as possible.
Charlotte smiled and nodded.
Zachary kissed her forehead before taking the children to the car.
Watching their departure, Charlotte couldn’t help but feel slightly emotional. She had never been apart with them for more than three days ever since they were born. The thought of leaving them for approximately half a month sounded like torture to her.
