They say a photograph is worth a thousand words. That might be a cliché, but for me it is the truth. You see, I’m mute and deaf. I can’t speak or hear. I’ve got my eyes, though, and I see things in a photograph that the average eye cannot. The truth is, I only need to look at a photograph to tell you what happened. Somehow, word spread of my uncanny ability and soon a local detective, desperate to solve a kidnapping case, contacted me and begged for my help.
That was all it took, and now any time a crime happens that they can’t solve on their own, they call me. I’ve earned the nickname X-ray. It’s kinda lame, I know, but it’s grown on me . . . not that I can see through solid stuff! I can just see what’s hidden within a photograph.
Once, they tried to take me to an actual crime scene and it was like synapse overload. I can’t see things in real life chaos, only in the 2-D image on a piece of paper. That photograph is like another world that opens up to my eyes, a place I can enter and see what’s underneath the jackets, the dust, the . . . you know, unpleasant realities.
But I’m tired of seeing the dark in the world. I’m tired of the blood and stains of man’s hatred against man . . . against self.
Yes, a photograph is worth a thousand words and more. I just want to see simple beauty in every syllable.
Rachael Ritchey 
X-ray could make a great detective! Cool idea, Rachael!
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Thanks, E!
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I think you have the makings of a fab idea here! Love the premise. You should develop this.
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It’s on the burner! Thanks, IBFF! I live hearing you like the potential here! 😀
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Such a different take on this prompt… Love it. And the last line is beautiful!
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Thank you, Heena!
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My pleasure!
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I love the idea of this. And that last line is beautiful. Short, simple, and elegant. Sometimes that’s all that’s needed. 🙂
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Thanks, Phoenix. You make an excellent point. ♡
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Nice interpretation of ‘photograph’. Great character and absolutely love that last line. ❤️
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Thanks so much, Sarah. 🙂 It was an inspired story, but just a spark with the potential to light flame. 😀 The last line was what it was all about! woohooo!
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This feels as though it could become a much bigger story 🙂 Love the idea of the deaf-mute character being able to see through the layers of a photograph. Awesome!
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There could be something amazing in it. Not sure I have the depth of imagination to write it, but I’m certainly tempted! ❤ Thanks, Helen. 🙂
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I think this story came to you for a reason 🙂 And I’m sure you’d have no trouble writing it.
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That is one vote of confidence I am incredibly grateful for today, Helen. 😀 Thank you.
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You are very welcome, any time 🙂
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I love this approach with the main character. How else would a deaf mute speak to her readers. Perfect and intriguing story. Something a little different. Enjoyed the read, Rachael. 🙂 ❤
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Thanks, Tess! I’m glad it developed well. I can see there being a bigger, more elaborate story behind this bit, but this is all I had in me this week. ❤
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An elegant choice for this week’s theme. You really made it a central part of your story–and I like that your protag was disabled. Well done. 🙂
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Thanks, Cathleen. It’s so much less like a story and more like a conversation, but it was all I could think about at the moment. I appreciate your words! ♡
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