“a freak like you should just disappear!” was one of the most common things the kids had said to you growing up. Being born deaf was unfair. You wanted to hear. You wanted to speak clearly.

But what you wanted to hear the most was his voice. Artemis, the man who has been there since day one. defending you from the bullies, learning sign language for you, learning to communicate with you. You two grew inseparable. Your parents were sure one day you two would get married.

And now that day was getting closer and closer. He had proposed to you a few months ago. It was a perfect and romantic proposal, just the two of you at your favorite park growing up. He swore you were his angel. His soulmate.

A light, gentle tap was felt on your shoulder, a sign that he was back home from another long day at the office. Due to your disability, it was harder to find a job. But he promised he will work hard to provide both of you.

He smiled— oh how you loved that gentle smile of his.

“i’m home and i brought take out.” he signed as he pointed at the food bags on the kitchen table.