Seeing Gu Ning remain silent, and not wanting her to stand there in the wind, Alex lowered his hand and said, "If you don't want to see me..."
"Alright." Gu Ning gripped the doorframe tightly, as if mustering immense courage, and spoke softly, "Let's... talk."
Alex asked, "Can I come in?"
Cook let out a displeased growl, blocking the doorway with his body. He wrapped an arm around Gu Ning's waist, posturing as if to pull her back inside.
Gu Ning patted his hand reassuringly, glanced back, and after a moment's thought, took the bag of food from Alex's hand and shoved it into Cook's arms. She whispered a few words in his ear, ruffled the hair on his big head, and closed the door amidst his low grumbling.
Barto didn't have a very good impression of Alex. If Alex went inside, he and Cook would likely cause a scene, making a proper conversation impossible.
Alex's gaze softened as he watched Gu Ning's actions.
After placating the big puppy, Gu Ning turned back to Alex.
