Muted

Chapter 2

"She must have fallen asleep."

The sound of voices jolted me from my dream. I opened my eyes and fight the swelling panic when I don't recognize where I am. It takes a few seconds but finally I can take a breath when I realize that I am on the grey couch at the police station.

The social worker stands by the door with another woman that I have never met before. She looked to be about my height, with curly blonde hair, blue eyes, and skin that made her looked like she was kissed by the sun.

This must be that Paige White they were telling me about earlier. I thought silently.

"I can't believe this is happening. I can't believe anyone could treat a child like this. No one suspected anything?" Her accent, distinct and unfamiliar.

Definitely Paige White.

"The new guidance counselor at her school picked up on the red flags immediately. There is however something you should know about her if you are to take on the responsibility of her care Mrs. White."

"Is she hurt? Sick? Whatever it is, we will take good care of her. We'd never turn her away." The worry in her voice grew the more she talked.

"Ms. Belle doesn't speak."

"She must be in shock, this must all be overwhelming for her."

"Mrs. White I don't think you understand. Her files say that none of her teachers have ever heard her speak, they assumed it made her uncomfortable. But even with my short time with her, she hasn't said a word. We have been communicating with a pad of paper and pencil."

"So what you're saying is that sweet little girl is a Mute?"

"I'm not sure if it is voluntary or medical but there are no medical records of her getting treated for it. I know this is a lot to take into consideration. If you need to speak to your family or-"

"No."

My heart chipped slightly at the finality in her voice.

She didn't want me either. She didn't even know me.

"I understand Mrs. White. I am sorry you had to fly all the way out here-"

"No, you misunderstand me. She could have any medical or behavioural issue in the world, and we would still love to have her. She's family. I meant no I don't need to confirm with my family or take anything into consideration."

I have never been so stunned in my entire life. Who was this woman? Unable to lay still any longer, I slowly sat up to alert the two women that I was awake.

"Aurora you're awake. This is Mrs. White." The social worker started to introduce us.

"Paige, you can call me Paige." She said softly. She walked towards me with tears making her blue eyes shine. I nodded to her to show that I understood.

"You look just like him." She whispered as her eyes raked over my face.

"I assume this nice lady explained everything to you already?"

More nods. More tears.

"Mrs. White just has to sign some papers with me and the you are both good to go."

Paige patted my arm gently and wiped her eyes with her other hand. We both moved over to sit around the table. As Paige signed paper after paper, the social worker spoke to me.

"Now Aurora, this is going to be quite a change for you. I am going to give you my card in case you need me for anything and in two weeks I will be coming for a visit. Alright?" She handed me the paper again.