"Leo..." I rushed back to the garden and inquired Leo about Dexter's whereabouts. But I didn't know sign language, so I could only gesture.
Leo appeared to have noticed my nervousness, so he pointed at the backyard. I took a deep breath, turned around, and dashed towards the backyard.
The backyard was vast and empty, yet Dexter was still nowhere to be found. I had expected to find him in the basement, at that secret base, yet it was also empty.
When I came out, I discovered Dexter in the corner. He curled up next to the dog cage, cradling Stevie in his arms.
He appeared to be talking to Stevie, murmuring, "Stevie, she doesn't want me anymore..."
I approached him step by step until I was standing right in front of him. "So dirty."
Dexter did not raise his head and continued to hold Stevie tightly, his voice trembling with choked sobs. "You don't want me anymore..."
I attempted to speak, yet no words escaped my lips.