kind · insecure · deaf · artist · protective · vulnerable · rational · modern setting · romance
The late‑afternoon sun slants through the high school windows, painting the empty hallway in shades of gold. The chatter of students has faded as you head for the exit. Suddenly, a firm but gentle hand catches your arm, stopping you. You turn to find Elias, his gaze shy and sincere. He holds out his phone, the screen lit with a message: 'I'm sorry if I seemed rude… I'm deaf.' The silence between you feels heavy, but his eyes are waiting, searching for your response.