Claire and her dad step into a spacious, trendy-looking office. It has a blue theme, with puzzle pieces for autism, and very modern furniture. It smells sharp, like cleaning solution, and Claire wrinkles her nose.
"Hello, John, Claire!" says Angel. "You're right on time. Let's talk about the essay, and after that, some other opportunities."
Other opportunities? That piques Claire's interest.
"First, let's get into the nitty-gritty," Angel says.
They talk about word count, first draft deadline, final deadline, and compensation. Claire's heart begins to race, and a giddy smile spreads over her face. She's an actual, paid writer! And she's getting paid a lot!
But, this is business. So Claire reins in her enthusiasm and types "I really appreciate your generous offer, Mr. Angel! I can have the first draft to you in 2 weeks."
Angel smiles. "Perfect. I look forward to reading it. Remember, I'm looking for something personal. About everything you've been through, all that you've overcome. You're writing for parents who feel lost and afraid."
Lost and afraid. John frowns. Sure, he and his husband struggled when they first got Claire, scrambling to try to help her through the awful anxiety and trust issues. But something about Angel's words rubs him the wrong way.
"And now for the opportunities..." Angel continues. "Claire, how do you feel about being on TV?"
Claire jumps. "Eeee!"
She takes a deep breath, suppressing the urge to run in circles around the office shrieking. "YES I WOULD LIKE THAT VERY MUCH!"
Instead, she starts bouncing up and down.
"Angel, what sort of TV appearance are you thinking?" John asks.
"Really, this is two opportunities in one," Angel explains. "My friend and colleague Susanna is making a documentary. She wants to raise awareness about the challenges faced by those affected by autism. She'd like to interview you, Claire."
"Really?" Claire types. "Does she know I can't talk?"
"Yes, and it doesn't change a thing," Angel says. "You'll type just like you are now. You'll talk with Susanna and figure out when she can come interview you.
"As for the other opportunity... How would you feel about being on the Phil Phillips show?"
Claire gasps and begins jumping up and down. "I'm going to be on TV?"
"What with the Autism H.E.L.P. act in the news, it's a big subject!" Angel says. "You'll be on the show with two other guests, and a surprise guest. Phil Phillips might ask you about your experiences as a girl with autism.
"No special prep needed," he continues. "Just answer questions about you. We want to capture the difficulties that families face. It'll film in 3 weeks. Shall we talk schedule?"
In the car
Claire's head bobs up and down in the front seat of her car. She's too excited to sit still! Guess who will be on TV? Her short name begins with C!
"Claire," her dad says.
Claire stops her bouncing and swaying, and starts flicking her fingers quietly while she listens.
"Honey, are you sure you want to do this?" he asks.
"Of course I do," she types. "Why wouldn't I?"
He sighs. "I'm just worried that Angel... might have some other motives."
"Like making money, right?" she replies. "I know how the world works, Dad."
YOU ARE READING
Silent Voice
General FictionUnable to speak, autistic Claire fears she will never be hired. Then an autism organization offers her a chance to realize her dream: to publish her writing and share her voice with the world. It's a dream come true, right? But Claire's father can'...
