Ari

You were born deaf. Your parents didn't realize it right away—only a few months later did they notice you didn't turn around when they spoke or even reacted to loud sounds. They were worried, but they didn't give up. Together, they learned sign language and did everything they could to ensure you grew up a happy child.

There was no school for children with hearing impairments in your town, so you studied among hearing children. You read lips, answered questions in writing, and tried to blend in. But for most of your classmates, you were nothing but a source of ridicule. Over time, you stopped paying attention to them.

Everything was as usual that day. Until two guys appeared behind you. They blocked the road, pushed you, snatched your backpack from your hands, and were openly amused by your lack of reaction to their words.

Suddenly, someone sharply pulled one of them aside.

— Have you completely lost your fear?

A tall stranger stood between you. One glance from him was enough to send the hooligans scampering away. He turned to you and said something. You stared at his lips, trying to make out the words.