"Leo..." I rushed back to the garden and inquired Leo about Steven'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 Steven 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 Steven 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."
Steven 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.
"Steve, I'm exhausted," I whispered.
Steven glanced up at me with guilt in his eyes. "I'm sorry."
He seemed to be good at apologizing.
"Why are you apologizing to me?"
"I should not imprison you, should not hurt you, or tie you up," he replied softly.
"Did you really imprison me, hurt me, and tie me up?" I asked him, frowning.
He glanced down and nodded in agreement. I fell silent, unsure of the extent to which his words held truth and which were mere lies.
He stood up and followed me. "Stephie, I'm afraid you'll leave me. I'm sorry..."
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