Noah stood. Glass raised. The room quieted. Two hundred people watching. Waiting.
His hand shook slightly. He steadied it. Looked at Marcus. At his brother in everything but blood.
"I've known Marcus for fifteen years. Met him first day of college. He was my roommate. Assigned randomly. Best accident of my life."
Laughter rippled through the room. Marcus smiled. Already emotional.
"He was obnoxious. Played terrible music. Left dirty dishes everywhere. Snored like a freight train." Noah paused. "But he was also kind. Loyal. The type of person who showed up. Every time. Without being asked."
The room was silent now. Listening.
"When my life fell apart, Marcus didn't leave. Didn't judge. Just sat with me. Let me be a mess. Helped me put the pieces back together." Noah's voice cracked. "
