It had been several days since he’d eaten, and the water wasn’t going to last much longer. Every day was the same. Wake up. Drink water. Nap. Drink more water. He was hungry. The smell didn’t bother him, but he was sad that she had changed. He couldn’t understand why she wasn’t talking to him. Confused, he nudged her, snuggled her, kissed her cheek. He was getting weaker.
The banging was intense. The door crashed open. People arrived. He heard one of them speak.
‘This elderly woman has been dead for a while. Check that dog’s collar for his name.’