The group went back up to ponder on the terrible sight that lay in the basement. Each bearing a slightly frightened look on their faces.
"All this while, we've been standing on a goddamn butcher shop?" Nelly threw at no one in particular.
"At least now we know why Max doesn't like beef and pork or any other dog food." Edward added.
"So, still think your choice of housing was the best?" Alex asked his wife bitterly.
"I'm sorry okay, but you surely didn't expect me to know people were killed here." Beatrice let out, hugging her daughter tighter as they sat on the settee. "It could be the same with the other houses for all we know."
"Don't give me that shit!"
"Hey you two, cut it out okay?" Edward intervened. "The last thing we need now is a fight. We've got to put our heads together, and think our way through this, it's what family does."
They went silent for while, each probably trying to kill the awkward moment.
"So, um..any suggestions?"
"We kill the dog," Alex spoke first. "Or at least send it away."
"He won't like that." Anna said cautiously.
They all locked their gaze on her.
"Anyone else still feels the 'five year old' doesn't know anything?" Nelly sneered, folding her arms.
"Give the girl a break, would you?"
"Alright," Alex began. "I have an idea. It's not much, but it's way better than sitting here and doing nothing."
"Let's hear it then." Edward said, leaning forward.
"I'll meet our neighbours, see if they know anything. Hopefully, they'd be willing to cooperate. Beatrice?"
She looked up.
"Call Olivia, you guys will have to meet today. Tell her what's going on, and see if you can get her to let us change houses, even if at the price of this one."
"Okay." She said, rising.
"Ed, Nelly, for now you both watch Anna."
"And the dog?"
"And the dog."
"Sounds like a plan."
"A dumb plan." Nelly said, sobbing gently as she sat, bending her head to her knees. "We're all going to die, aren't we?"
"Not if we can help it." Beatrice said, pulling her to a hug, in a bid to comfort her.