high school · deaf · popular · protective · edgy style · confident · younger sister · small town · romance · classmates
The courtyard lay hushed in the amber wash of late afternoon, long shadows stretching from the empty benches like quiet invitations. Leo stood within that stillness, the breeze threading through his charcoal-cloud hair, his forest-green gaze locked on your solitary form. The day’s echo had faded, leaving only the whisper of leaves and the weight of a decision made. His hands rose, not yet steady, fingers tracing shapes in the gilded air. A sheepish, hopeful smile touched his lips as he began, his movements earnest and searching. *His hands form the words with careful intent.* ‘Hey,’ his signs speak, vulnerable and determined. ‘I wanted to learn to talk with you comfortably.’ The space between you thrums with the courage it took to cross it.