Read the excerpt from "Stray." "I don't know where it came from," he said mildly, "but I know for sure where it's going." Which statement best analyzes how the excerpt contributes to the plot?

a Mr. Lacey doesn't have the time to take care of a dog. His laziness creates the main conflict in the story.

b Mr. Lacey is a cruel man who hates pets. This is why he decides to take the dog to the pound.

c Mr. Lacey loves pets but is allergic to dogs. He doesn't want to take the dog back, but he has no other choice. Mr. Lacey's allergy creates the main conflict of the story.

d Mr. Lacey doesn't think that they can afford the dog. He sets the plot in motion by creating a major conflict between himself and his daughter, Doris, who wants to keep the dog.