Chương 39: Puppy food

"Alix, please open the door," Dunice pleaded once more, her voice gentle yet tinged with concern, but still, no answer came from behind the locked door.

"When you're hungry, you can come to me for your food," Dunice continued, hoping to break through the wall of silence that separated her from her daughter, but once again, she received no reply.

With a frustrated sigh, Dunice decided to call Alex, hoping he might have some insight or advice.

"Hey, babe, did you get home safely with Alix?" Alex's voice beamed through the phone.

"Yes, I did, but there's a little problem," Dunice drawled, her tone heavy with worry.

"What's wrong?" Alex asked worriedly, sensing the discomfort in Dunice's tone.