“That’s true. Aurora didn’t speak in the past and used to only stare at people. I thought that she was mentally retarded before she was five years old.”

At this point, Laura changed the topic of conversation. “Rory has been very guarded since a young age. How come she actually told you about this?”

Deirdre said smilingly, “It’s because I just attended the birthday party you threw a year ago, Ms. Smith. Rory is already six, and I was very curious, which is why I asked. Rory then told me about it.”

Laura nodded and assumed a sad demeanor once again.

Deirdre asked curiously, “Was Rory born mute, or was it something else?”

Laura answered, “She was born mute. That is why I say she’s fortunate that, to everyone’s surprise, she managed to speak again.”

Deirdre smiled but was having trouble forcing herself. “How did Cillian feel at the time? I believe that a person like him wouldn’t be fond of having a mute daughter. Isn’t that right?”

“You’re right. Cillian was never fond of Aurora an