Short Story: The Silence by Rehanul Hoque

Rehanul Hoque crafts a poignant tale that emphasizes the grey area between love and desire as it talks about the need to be loved.

The dimness of the room was perfect for them both. That was how she loved it; the gentle light covered up the years that had become ingrained in her skin and the weariness in her eyes. He never asked for more light. Every Tuesday, he would drop by, say nothing, and leave a wad of money on the dresser.

Tonight was no different. From the bathroom, she could hear him, the sound of water splashing over his hands. It wasn’t the first time he washed them as soon as he arrived. Maybe it was a sense of guilt. Maybe shame. She never enquired.