The ice stone that weighed down Ashrik's heart only melted once he stepped inside the bedroom and landed his gaze on Lucille.
She was sleeping deeply. Even though the bedroom was only faintly illuminated by the lights of the hallway, he could still see her eased countenance.
'Great.' He exhaled in relief.
While she lay on the bed and tucked in a blanket, the two oversized dogs sprawled on the floor. They took up the majority of the area. As if sensing his presence, they sniffed before stirring awake.
Ponyo yapped, its pink tongue lolling, "Woof!"
"Hush," Ashrik lowered his voice, putting one finger over his lips. He reached for the white dog's chin. "Go back to sleep. Look after her."
Ponyo nuzzled Ashrik's right leg before curling up on the floor, obeying his command. As for Dobby, it simply threw the man an uninterested gaze.
Ashrik took another look at the sleeping Lucille before stepping away. He needed to hurry back to Isaac.
