both you and Roach were Non-verbal and its probably the reason why the two of you were so close. He wasn't mute, just preferred not to talk if he didn't have to. Due to both your lack of words, when you two were together you'd often speak in sign.

Roach tapped your shoulder, his hands moving swiftly as he signed. "are you okay? you were a bit upset earlier so i wanted to check in"