Behind Closed Doors

Closed

Christopher had decided to run, eager to return home. His pace increased when the yellow chimney of his house became visible. Skipping up the stairs, he hurriedly unlocked the main door and rushed inside.

One hasty shower later, Christopher rolled up his sleeves to prepare dinner. He opted for chicken and rice—it was one of her favourites. He made sure to add a quick squeeze of lemon in her bowl. His footsteps echoed on the way down to the basement, unsettling the silence of the floor. The key was put in, the lock turned, and the metal door creaked open to a dingy room. Chains rattled as he stepped in, lips turning up involuntarily. A figure hidden by dark hair sat in the middle. He was pleased to see her following the training. Sitting the bowl in front of her, he stroked her hair and softly pat her head. Blue eyes clashed with his, asking for permission. At his nod, she began devouring the dinner. Christopher leant against the adjacent wall to watch her eat.

"I met someone today.", he mentioned.

She paused, hearing his voice and stared at him, unblinking. She let out a muffled whine at his next statement.

"She gave me her number."

He laughed lowly and positioned himself in front of her.

Maintaining eye contact, he said, "You need not worry, Alice. Here, this is her number. I have no use for it. I promise. There is no one for me but you."

He observed her swallow bits of paper with the rice. When she finished, he placed a tender kiss on her forehead.

"You have been a good girl. Maybe we won't need these chains anymore. I'll be back soon." She could only whimper in response.

Subsequent to cleaning the dishes, he relaxed on the living room sofa. Barely listening to the news playing on the television, Christopher ate his dinner; until his eyes met familiar blue ones on the screen.

"... –teen when she went missing. Our sources report that authorities may be closing the Missing Case of Alice Cooper soon on account of lack of substantial evidence."