Ethan let the sentence sit there.
Then he said, “No.”
Robert’s eyes flicked toward Patricia.
Ethan continued. “Confusion is when a keycard stops working. Confusion is when a luggage tag falls off. Confusion is not mocking a guest because of his clothing, refusing to check the correct system, insulting his child’s situation, and telling him to go to a cheaper motel.”
Patricia whispered, “I never insulted his child.”
Ethan looked at her.
“You used my daughter as evidence that I did not belong.”
Patricia lowered her eyes.
Karla’s lips tightened. “We have security concerns. People walk in here all the time pretending to have reservations.”
Lily stirred.
“Daddy,” she mumbled, eyes still shut. “Are we at the room yet?”
Ethan’s expression softened instantly.
“Almost, sweetheart.”
Lupita stepped forward. “I can take them up. I’ll bring warm milk too, if that’s okay.”
Lily opened one sleepy eye and saw her.
