She cut her food in such a way. Perfection almost. She threw carrots, celery, and potatoes all into one big pot. She then filled the pot with water. Maddie then went over to check on her casserole. Opening the oven, such delightful scents filled the warm air. As she closed the oven, she looked up and over the counter. Her friend Sarah was pulling up her Rocky driveway.
Maddie headed for her front and only door. It was a glass sliding door. Big clear doors, no curtains.
As she walked down her porch stairs, Sarah slammed her car door, Maddie hearing nothing. Absolutely nothing. Sarah did a small little wave as they both leaned in for a hug. Sarah was also her next door neighbour. Next door as in about 3 miles away.
They started to communicate in sign language. Something Maddie had used for many, many years.
"Hey", Sarah mimicked. She moved her lips as she did sign.
"Hey girl", was Maddies reply.
"I finished reading your book", Sarah said, gesturing to the book she had in her hands.
One of the reasons Maddie lived in the forest by herself was for inspiration. It had been one of her only talents since the losing of her hearing.
"Was it good?", Maddie asked.
"Of course. It was written by you", Sarah let out a little chuckle. Maddie went along, and started to laugh as well.
The went on and on about her book, about life, about Chris. About her ex. Her ex, Chris. Chris and Maddie dated for a while. Maddie broke up with him when she just didn't think they were meant for each other. Chris was her protector, her life. But she just didn't feel like dating him.
"So, what your love life lookin like?", Sarah asked.
"Well, I joined Dating For The Deaf. Three guys looked interesting, but I just get over Chris", she answered. "How bout you and John, how yo...."she was cut off by the fact that Sarah just bolted out during their conversation. She grabbed Maddie's arm as she bolted up the stairs.
Maddie saw red flashing lights. Lights and smoke. They ran into the kitchen together, a look of confusion spread across Maddie's face.
"Your casserole", Sarah mouthed, as she took the casserole out, black and all. Sarah took off the oven mitts. She stared at Maddie. They both let out a little giggle. They started to attempt to clear the smoke from the living room, kitchen area.
