Chapter 6 - Shadows of the Past
Inside Mia’s bedroom—a cozy space filled with books, stuffed animals, and art supplies—Emma sat beside the young girl’s bed.
Mia signed rapidly, telling Emma about her mother, how much she missed school before her father pulled her out for safety, and how lonely it was living in a big house where no one spoke her language.
Daddy tries, Mia signed softly, her small fingers shaping the words carefully. He learns signs from a book at night when he thinks I'm sleeping. But his hands are big and clumsy, and he's always so busy protecting everyone.
Emma smiled warmly. He loves you very much, Mia. I can see it in his eyes.
Do you have a family? Mia asked.
Emma’s smile faltered slightly. She signed back: I had a little brother named Noah. He was deaf, just like you. He taught me everything I know. But he went to heaven a few years ago.
Mia’s eyes filled with soft empathy. She reached out and wrapped her small arms around Emma’s neck, hugging her tightly. Thank you for staying with me, Emma.
Standing outside the half-open bedroom door, Matteo listened in silence, watching the interaction through the crack. He understood enough sign language to follow the conversation. Seeing Emma comfort his daughter with such effortless warmth stirred emotions in his chest that he had buried long ago.
When Mia finally drifted off to sleep, Emma quietly stepped out into the hallway, finding Matteo waiting near the grand staircase.
"Thank you," Matteo said softly, leading her toward a balcony overlooking the estate’s expansive gardens.
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"She’s a special girl, Matteo," Emma said, walking out into the cool night air. "But she’s isolated. She needs connection, not just security guards."
"I know," Matteo acknowledged, staring out into the dark. "My world is dangerous. I thought keeping her hidden was keeping her safe. But tonight proved that even my own home wasn't secure."
