A little girl wearing a bright red satin dress walked through the crowd.
A large golden bow was tied neatly around her waist and sparkled under the light.
She carried a small golden purse and walked with fast and happy steps.
Her dark hair bounced around her shoulders as she looked around the grand hall.
She stopped right in front of Matthew and gave him a huge smile.
Matthew stepped back slightly because he was not used to strangers talking to him.
The little girl raised both of her small hands into the air cleanly.
She began moving her fingers in quick and fluent signing shapes right away.
Lily: Hi you! Do you know American Sign Language?
Matthew stared at her fingers in total surprise as his eyes grew wide.
He had not expected anyone his age at this party to know sign language.
His small fingers twitched as he lifted his hands up to reply carefully.
Matthew: A little. Is dad okay?
Lily giggled softly and tapped her own chest near her warm heart.
Lily: Matthew is smiling!
Matthew felt a wave of relief wash over his tired little shoulders.
He realized this kind girl knew his name and was not here to mock him.
Her name was Lily, and her mother worked alongside David at the charity foundation.
Lily moved closer and signed another smooth sentence with her small hands.
Lily: My mom told me you were here tonight, so I came to find you.
Matthew: Thank you for coming over to talk to me in my language.
The two children stood near the foot of the grand marble staircase together.
Their fingers moved back and forth fast, making graceful shapes in the air.
Guests walking past stopped their conversation to watch the incredible silent dialogue unfold.
The light rustle of Lily's red satin dress made a soft sound with every move.
Matthew felt his fear melting away like ice under a hot summer sun.
He felt like he had finally found a real friend in this crowded room.
Matthew: We are like two stars.
Lily nodded her head quickly and tapped her shoe against the shiny floor.
Lily: Bright stars that shine even when it is very dark outside!
Suddenly, a shadow fell over the two children as someone walked up close.
Richard stood over them with his arms crossed tightly over his dark suit.
His face was red with anger as he looked down at the signing kids.
Richard: Stop making those silly hand motions in front of all our rich guests!