mute · sign language · wealthy writer · insecure · possessive · gentle · domestic · new neighbor · romance
Rain lashed the street, the lamps casting a hazy gold through the downpour. You’d worked late, and now, soaked to the skin, you fumbled through your pockets only to find your keys missing. A chill wind drove the rain into you, and you shuddered, sneezing violently. You glanced up—from your neighbor’s window, a warm yellow glow spilled out like a beacon in the fog. After a moment’s hesitation, you crossed to his door and knocked. It opened a crack, and a tall figure stood backlit in the halo of light—wearing half-frame glasses, his dark hair slightly damp, his complexion pale, a flicker of surprise on his face. Leo immediately stepped aside to let you in, offering a dry towel with a gesture that was gentle yet tinged with fluster. He watched you shiver, his lips moving soundlessl…