He used to smile.
He used to laugh and play like a child
despite the fact he had no hearing.
This time he is different.
All I see is anger in those
chocolate brown eyes.
The same hand that used to sign
“I love you,”
now shakes with rage.
I want my friend back.

She stole his happiness,
She stole his trust.
I see marks on his back,
Marks made from rage,
the same kind of rage
that drove him to break our window.
I’ve never seen such hurt and bitterness.
I miss the boy he used to be.
I want my friend back.

We used to play together,
Now I hide behind a locked door.
Why can’t he see that we love him?
Why are some people so evil?
Mom is crying.
Dad says we have to send him away.
I just want my friend back.