Linnea and Tom's Relationship (Spoilers)

Their relationship was distinct from the others Tom had in the movie. Note that unlike the others, he didn't kick her out of bed (or ignore their affection). Instead, he tried to make her stay longer. Also, note that he took repeated risks calling her at home, and had a real insecure tremor in his voice during the last call.

I think Tom really felt for her, and really wanted a relationship with her. While he does call the other girl when she has to leave, this is probably to make her jealous, and/or deal with the pain her departure causes, as he hangs up on the other girl as soon as Linnea does leave.

I also think there's an intended parallel between Linnea's deaf kids, and Tom. He's also disabled, in a sense, in that he can't really love anyone. And she senses that, and it's probably one of the things that draws her to him, in sympathy. She feels sorry for him, and for the emptiness in his life.

Think about what she tells the BBC reporter -- her deaf kids aren't sad, she should meet them. What's really sad is Tom's empty life.