Eli focused on sensor calibration and reliability.
Owen defended the predictive software and the practical design.
They had built the system together, but each could explain every part of it.
Mrs. Ramirez squeezed my shoulder before they went inside.
“Whatever happens, remember this moment.”
I nodded.
But the afternoon was not kind to my nerves.
At two thirty, one of the demonstration robots malfunctioned.
At three, a student became sick and had to withdraw.
At three forty-five, the judges called Eli and Owen back for additional questions.
I watched through the glass wall as my sons stood before three professors.
One displayed a graph.
Another pointed at the prototype.
Eli leaned forward, explaining something.
Owen adjusted a setting on the demonstration unit.
The professors exchanged looks.
I couldn't tell whether they were impressed or concerned.
When the boys finally emerged, Owen's expression was serious.
“What happened?” I asked.
He looked at his brother.
