I'm Here // One-On-One // CLOSED

"I might be King by marriage, but not by blood. Please, don't be so formal with me."

"Okay," she replied. "Liam, you'll be a great King."

"Thank you. That means a lot to me."

She nodded. "You're welcome,"

"Oh, uh, this is my sister Faybeline."

"How are you?" Anah asked, holding out her hand.

I'm well, thank you, Faybeline signed.
"Sorry, I forgot to mention that Fay is mute. She communicates with sign language."

"Oh, I'm sorry." You're welcome, she signed back.

You know sign language? Not many people do, Fay signed.

Yes. My parents taught me when I was young. Anah smiled.

I can actually hear sounds. I just can't speak. If it's difficult for you you can speak.

Yes, but I wanted you to know that I can speak with you this way.

It's… Nice. Thank you. Few people try to learn and communicate with me.

You're welcome. And you have a beautiful name, by the way.

Thank you. It was say grandmother's name. Please, call me Fay.

Okay. Do you think they're confused? Anah incited Elina and Liam.

No, they both know sign language. Especially Liam. If he didn't know it, he'd be an inconsiderate brother.

That's true. It was a stupid question.

No, don't put yourself down. Elina has told me much about you. A voice interrupted the sister-in-laws' talk.
"It's time for the bride and groom's dance."

Anah looked up at Elina with a grin. "Go on, the sisters-in-law could use some bonding time," she said, smiling at Fay.

Fay smiled back. Elina smiled before Liam took her arm and led her onto the dance floor.

What has Elina told you about me? Anah asked once her sister and Liam were dancing.

That even in the years you were gone, she never ever forgot about you. Sometimes she did activities and pretended you were with her.

Anah faltered at this. Oh. Anything else? Her fingers shook as she signed. Great, she thought, you're stuttering in sign language.

Not that I can think of off the time of my head. Why are you nervous?

Not nervous, just– She stopped for a second, trying to communicate the right word. Surprised, I guess. I didn't realize she missed me that much. I thought she hated me.

No, she talks about you constantly. As if you'd never left. She misses you everyday.

I missed her. I had no one to talk to about it before.

Well, now you have me. Your almost sister. And I won't tell Elina anything you don't want me to.

Anah smiled gratefully. Thank you. Elina has Liam to talk to, and I'm lucky enough to confide in you.