PART 2: THE BOY WHO STOOD UP

Brandon’s father ordered him to sit down, but the boy refused.

“You said this gentleman wouldn’t remember today,” Brandon said. “I think Grandpa would be ashamed of us.”

Nobody laughed or applauded. The silence was heavier than shouting.

Brandon turned back to Jeremy and offered him the armband.

“My dad doesn’t deserve this anymore. I think you do.”

Grandpa studied the boy for a long moment. Then he gently folded Brandon’s fingers around the faded cloth.

“If your grandfather wore this to every match, it belongs with you.”

Brandon shook his head, but Grandpa would not take it.

A woman behind us stood and demanded he return the seat. Another supporter joined her, followed by someone across the aisle.