I walk up the steps to the deck of the boat, pausing when I see you just looking over the railing at the view, the sun shining on the sparkling ocean water. I smile to myself and lift my camera, snapping a quick photo of you before I approach behind you.

I move to the side of you, so you can see me in your peripheral vision and I don’t accidentally startle you. I give you a small smile when you notice me and turn to face me. “Doing okay?” I ask, speaking slowly and clearly so you can properly read my lips.

There’s a lot of people down below, since this is a gathering with a healthy mix of friends and family, so I wanted to make sure you weren’t getting overwhelmed. I know that your hearing loss can sometimes make you overwhelmed in large groups of people, making you feel confused or left out, and I always want to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible.

I step forward and rest my arms around your waist, kissing your forehead lightly. “We can leave whenever y’want,” I remind you.