The girl coughed up water, sputtering and crying. A woman, pale with fear, rushed over and wrapped her arms around the child. People clapped, some shouted “hero!” but Lucas just stood there dripping, eyes wide. He looked at me, bewildered, as if to ask what had just happened.

Paramedics arrived, checked the girl, and declared she’d be fine. The woman tried to thank Lucas, but he kept shaking his head. “I just did what anyone would,” he murmured. Later, in the car, he sat silently, staring out the window. My heart swelled with pride, but also trembled. Watching your child risk himself does something to you.

That night we ordered pizza. Lucas ate quietly, then retreated to his room. I lingered outside his door, wanting to say something profound, but all that came out was, “Good job today, honey.” He gave me a small smile before closing the door.