She approached quietly, raising no dust, and seated herself on the edge of the bench.
“Hi,” she said softly.
The boy flinched.
“Uh… hi?” he stammered. “Are you… talking to me?”
“Yes,” she said calmly. “Why are you sitting here by yourself?”
A short laugh escaped him, tired and uncertain.
“Even surrounded by people,” he murmured, “I’m still alone. I can’t see them.”
Lila studied him without pity, without hesitation.
“What’s your name?” he asked.
“Juliette,” she said. “And you?”
“Emmett,” he replied.
He gave her a faint smile, reserved but genuine. “It’s nice to meet you, Juliette. You’re the first person today who hasn’t looked away or pitied me.”
“Why would I?” she asked. “You’re not frightening. You just can’t see yet. That’s all.”
Emmett tilted his head, uncertain. “What do you mean?”
“I can help you,” she said with quiet confidence.
Emmett blinked, surprised. “Help me?” he asked softly. “I’ve been to every specialist in the state. They all said there’s no hope. How could you help?”
“I’m not a doctor,” she said, “but I know a way no doctor can.”
“You mean… some divine power?” he whispered.
“I don’t name it,” she said gently. “I just know that today, I can give you back what you’ve lost.”