All the Words I Never Said

The Story

Layla’s parents died saving Elias Cole from a burning building, an event that robbed her of hearing and speech. The Cole family raised her, and Elias swore to be her eyes, ears, and voice. Ten years later, a transfer student named Molly turns their school into a game. In the boys’ bathroom, Layla’s hearing suddenly returns, revealing that Elias has participated in this torment for a long time. She remains silent while a recorder captures every insult and line about a cripple who cannot call for help. She endures beatings, a wastewater tank, and broken ribs, keeping the file intact. Molly will eventually hear her own voice played back. When Elias finally attempts to make amends by breaking things, Layla is already on a plane. She flies to an uncle who has waited ten years for her call, preparing to say her first word out loud.