And he’ll lose it for his son.
Hatton scurries at his dad’s side like he would rather be anywhere but here. His head is ducked, and he’s avoiding Icarus’ eye.
Hatton takes after Ellington in looks with the same pretty hazel eyes and tumble of brunet hair, as if he’s someone’s treasured Omega who is handfed and worshiped. He is dressed in a satin, salmon pink suit.
He doesn’t take after his dad in any other way. He may be spoiled but he’s not cruel.
“Mr. Sinner,” Ellington drawls, “aren’t you cutting it fine time wise? I will have to report that you are late.”
“I apologize, Mr. Frost.” Icarus straightens his shoulders with a wince.
Ellington turns to Hatton, clearly training him. “Never let staff get away with anything or they will take advantage of you, especially as we’re Omegas. Alphas in particular see that as license to break the rules and push us around.”
Icarus bristles.
“I understand, sir,” Hatton dutifully replies.
“In case your future pack takes an interest in running this place with you, it’s important that you learn as much as you can. Omegas need to work harder than other dynamics in order to be taken seriously and valued. Now, pay attention. You can shadow me through this Christmas week. It’s crucial to the success of the entire year.” Ellington snaps his fingers at Icarus. “Mr. Sinner, I expect you to be sharper this week. My Head Alpha demands that everything be perfect, and I don’t let her down.”
“Of course, sir.”
“Also, several new Hotel Omegas will be joining the staff later this morning. I thought that it would help out for the busy period and also be good to add to the variety for the guests.”
Icarus’ mouth tightens, but he merely nods.
I hurriedly attempt to slip into line but I’m not quick enough because Hatton sees me.
His eyes light up. “Grace!”
He breaks away from Ellington to stride toward me.
Before Hatton can throw his arms around me, however, he’s stopped by Ellington’s outraged cry.
“What on earth do you think you’re doing, Hatton?” Ellington demands. To my surprise, he has become ashen, glancing up at the cameras. “Get back here. I am appalled by such an uncouth display. I did not raise you to act that way in front of the staff.”
Hatton freezes, staring at me desperately.
We are so close, but there is a gulf between us now.
“Your father is talking to you, sir,” Icarus says, gently.
Hatton hesitates. “But she’s just here. Can’t I hug her? That’s all. I haven’t even seen my niece. Maybe my sister could take me to?—”
“You mean thatstaffmember?” When Ellington’s cold gaze slides over me, my blood chills.
I can’t help the flinch atstaff member, rather thandaughter.
Ellington has never treated me like a daughter, even though I was raised in the pack where he was First Omega. It still hurts to be rejected so thoroughly.
“She has nothing to do with you, Hatton. Stop being ridiculous and let them get on with their work. You wouldn’t want any of them to get into trouble because you held them up, would you?” Ellington asks with a sweetness that is edged with steel.
For a moment, fire rages in my usually soft brother’s eyes.
Don’t say anything.
For fuck’s sake, I already have one brother made into a Rej2.
Immediately after I was sent to live with the staff, I sneaked letters via Hatton’s meals and in folded laundry (Bird did too), begging Hatton to behave and not to rebel or break Maya’s rules.
