He laughed.

“You’re right.

We started again because that’s what rehearsals are for.”

By the night of the concert, the cafeteria smelled of popcorn and winter coats.

Families filled folding chairs.

The audience was smaller than Noah had imagined, but the children had prepared carefully.

The younger musicians played first.

Noah stood near the side curtain, whispering encouragement as nervous performers hurried on and off the stage.