Hushed

Chapter Ten

Step step step step step. We walk down the hall. I try to keep my eyes on the floor, but I can't help glancing at him.

What's interesting is he keeps looking at me too. Hmm.

I take my pen and paper and quickly write my name and phone number. I tuck the pen away. I don't think he noticed.

I fold the paper into perfect. Even. Rectangles. Crease them with my fingernails.

I realize then he's staring at me. And our pace has slowed.

What? I give him a quizzical look. 

He shrugs. Just seeing what all the noise was.

Wait. Noise? Paper makes noise? Like sound? What does it sound like? I look at the paper. As if it will make a sound I can hear.

It's then I realize he can still see me. He's looking at me. As if figuring something out. No. Don't. Don't figure it out. Don't bring it to light. I'm normal. Can't you tell? I'm normal. Please.

He's looking down now, glancing up at me, and I see the question forming in his eyes but stuttering at his lips. Not sure how to ask.

Finally, he... Oh. He's looking me straight in the eye. Oh s***. I can't lie to him like this if he asks.

You... Couldn't hear the paper...?

No. Yes. Of course I could. I'm normal. I blink slowly, getting my eyes out of his. Um... I throw up a that's-preposterous mask. I nod. Of course I heard it.

Disappointment floods his face. Oh. I hate that. I hate myself for having to lie to him.

Please. Don't lie to me. I could see that you were shocked that you made any sound at all.

No. No no no. No. Be stupid. Please. She'll kill me if anyone finds out. Shake of the head. No. You're wrong, boy.

Hey. Calm down. I won't do anything to you. I just want to know the truth. Are. You......

He takes a step toward me and looks into my eyes. No. He'll see the truth if I lie. It's over. She's going to kill me.

Deaf?