He walked to the stage in a daze. Trophy. Certificate. Full scholarship to MIT, including living expenses. Flashing cameras. Applause like weather.
From the stage he found Andrew in the audience, standing now, clapping with unusual lack of restraint while holding Lily, who bounced excitedly in his arms as though she understood victory when she saw it.
Later, back at the hotel, they celebrated quietly. Sparkling cider for Noah. A late dinner sent up from the kitchen. Lily in footed pajamas banging a spoon against a soft toy while both men laughed harder than the joke deserved.
“You know,” Noah said, picking Lily up when she reached for him, “this all started because your baby wouldn’t stop crying.”
Andrew smiled. “And because you got out of your seat.”
Noah looked down at Lily. “I almost didn’t.”
“I’m very glad you did.”
Andrew raised his glass. “To impossible flights.”
Noah raised his. “To difficult problems.”
They clinked them together.