Page 122 of Forbidden Hearts
Olivia nods with a smile.
A few days ago, the speech therapist recommended an app for Olivia that is sort of like Google translate. It takes audio and translates it to sign language and vice versa. I tried it a few times, and while it’s severely lacking, we agreed to keep trying.
I open the app and set the phone on the table so the screen is facing Olivia. “Let’s try.”
“Okay.”
I explain the app to my father and let him know that he needs to speak very slowly and clearly. I get one raised brow, but no other protest.
“How are you?” he asks.
Olivia smiles.“Good.”
There is about a ten-second delay before the app replies with what she signed.
My dad looks at me. “This isn’t exactly great.”
“No, but it’s something.”
This could help so many if it were better developed. Not all the signs are correct, and it feels almost as if the creator took online ASL lessons and didn’t actually speak to people who are fluent. I called my friend at Gallaudet University, and she said they aren’t working on this particular one, but she loves the idea. There is a more complex software available, but that doesn’t help the immediate needs when someone is out or is in an emergency situation.
I turn to Liv.“Ask him a question.”
She presses the button on her phone.“Can Phoebe live with me forever?”
I laugh and shake my head.“You’re silly.”
She shrugs.
My dad is grinning. “She’s pretty great, but she needs to go back to grad school.” My stomach plummets, and I work hard to stay calm.
The app translates that, and Olivia’s face puckers. I grab the phone and play back the last sign. “She’s pretty grape, but she heeds to go back to dad’s cool.”
Oh Lord. I translate what it should’ve said, and she nods.
“Have you made a decision?” Daddy asks.
“I haven’t.”
Because now, I don’t know what to do. I would have the baby in December or January, which is right when finals are. I can’t imagine being in a class nine months pregnant while constantly worrying about going into labor.
I just don’t see a way around having to take a year off without it also meaning my possibly not being accepted into either schools’ program.
The idea of staying here and being Asher’s unemployed girlfriend seems equally bad because gossip in a small town can be just as bad as a viral post of you kissing your married professor. When we tell people that we’re together, it’ll be all anyone talks about, and when they all find out I’m having a baby?
A shudder runs down my spine.
“Time is running out, Birdie.”
“I know. Trust me, I know.”
I have to make a decision in the next day or so, and I really don’t know what to do.
“I think you should stay,”Olivia tells me.
“And why is that?”
“Because you’re my best friend.”
