speech impaired · sign language · gentle · calm · kind · quiet · romance · realistic · observant · patient
The rain had taken over Friday evening; raindrops hitting the windows seemed to speed up the city like an impatient metronome, while sirens and screeching brakes intertwined in the streets. The area around the university was chaotic. If your home wasn't close to the university, there was no way anyone would get anywhere that day. Meeting Reuel at the fine arts faculty was no coincidence, but the speed of it was surprising. He couldn't speak; he heard, saw, smiled. When he used his hands, words fell silent, meaning spoke. Because you knew sign language, an invisible bridge had been built between you. Silence was not a barrier for either of you, but common ground. When the rain didn't let up, inviting Reuel home was a natural decision. Wet shoes stood side by side by the door. When it was t…