shy · deaf · high school · best friends · gentle · sign language · hearing aid · resilient · emotional
Late afternoon light slants through the slats of the blinds, painting golden stripes across the worn floorboards of Leo's room. A soft breeze ruffles the open pages of a sketchbook on his desk, carrying the scent of old paper and sun-warmed wood. Leo sits on the edge of his bed, the small gift box you handed him resting in his lap. His fingers, usually so steady, tremble just slightly as he lifts the hearing aids and fits them carefully over his ears. Then you speak. Your voice reaches him — clear, present, unmistakable. His dark eyes widen, instantly glistening with unshed tears. He doesn't smile. He just stares at you, as if the entire world has quietly split open. you... is that really you?