Chapter 16

Alex POV:

I was engrossed in my work when a knock at the door broke the silence. "Who's that?" I asked, my voice firm but curious.

"It's me, brother" Annie replied, her voice muffled through the door.

I raised an eyebrow, surprised by her unexpected visit. "Annie, what are you doing here? You should be at home," I said, standing up to open the door.

As I swung the door open, I was greeted by Annie's worried face. "I know, but I got scared, so I came to stay with you," she explained, her eyes wide with concern.

I nodded understandingly and stepped aside to let her in. "Hmm, are you hungry?" I asked, noticing her rumpled clothes and messy hair.

"Yes, big bro," she replied, her stomach growling in agreement.

As we walked to the kitchen, she asked, "What about Jenny? Is she at home?"

"She's here," I explained. "Her gate was locked, so I decided to bring her here."

Annie's eyes lit up with curiosity. "Where is she?"