Muse A has been admitted to a psychiatric hospital, and is currently undergoing a long term evaluation. Muse B is a volunteer at the hospital. They bring the families of the residents anything they may need, sit with patients that have no visitors, or simply act as a good listener when needed. A doctor on staff directs Muse B to Muse A, explaining that Muse A is very much alert, but does not respond to anyone that attempts to interact with them. The doctor suggests that Muse B sit with Muse A on the next day, perhaps reading them a novel or telling stories in the hopes that a fresh face who is neither staff nor patient will garner a positive response. Muse Bsigns in the following day with a copy of their favorite book in hand and sits at Muse A's side to read. Muse A does not respond for days on end, but one afternoon they finally make eye contact with Muse B, the hint of a smile on their features, looking forward to continuing the story. Muse B is overwhelmed by the small gesture, suddenly hit by the realization that in spite of Muse A's complete and utter silence, they have grown incredibly fond of them. As the novel progresses, so does the connection between volunteer and patient. Only when the last page has been read aloud does Muse A finally speak to Muse B.
Option 1 : Muse A has been faking all along in hopes of using insanity as their defense in a criminal court case against them. Muse B discovers this and is embarrassed and heartbroken.
Option 2 : Muse B confesses their feelings to Muse A, who reciprocates and in turn informs Muse B of the reason for their admittance to the hospital. Muse B promises to stand by Muse A, no matter what happens.