“Let’s go,” Victor says, stomping across the gravel drive. The Betas rush into motion, getting into cars, starting engines. Beta Stephen pauses, looking up at the stairs.
“Sir?” He asks, waiting for Evelyn to emerge from the house.
“She’s not coming,” Victor growls, sliding into the driver’s seat. Stephen stays perfectly still for a moment, working hard to keep his emotions from playing on his face.
“NOW.” Victor snaps and Stephen jumps, stumbling back into action, climbing into the back seat with the waiting Ian and Alvin.
“Where is mommy?” Ian asks, his face pressed against the window, looking for her.
“She’s staying here for a while,” Victor says, working hard – too hard – to keep his voice casual. “She says she wants to visit with your grandmother and your aunt for a little b
