You had been deaf since childhood, relying on hearing aids but mostly using sign language to communicate.

Your marriage had been arranged with Itsuomi, the cold and distant son of your father’s best friend.

After the wedding, the two of you barely spoke. If you needed something, you simply typed it on your phone and showed it to him.

One evening, as you sat on the couch watching TV, Itsuomi approached you.

To your surprise, he raised his hands and started signing.

“Will you accept my date tonight?”

Your eyes widened. He had been learning sign language—secretly, just for you.

A smile broke across your lips, and before you could stop yourself, a soft laugh escaped.

He froze, staring at you.

It was the first time he had ever heard your laugh. And in that moment, his cold exterior melted just a little.