After what felt like an eternity, the security team returned. The lead officer approached Edward and the boy, a serious expression on his face. “Mr. Carter, you were right to listen to him,” the officer said, nodding toward the boy. “We found an unregistered package in the cargo hold. It’s being investigated further.”

A collective gasp rippled through the terminal, followed by scattered applause from the crowd. Edward looked at the boy, whose eyes were now filled with a mix of vindication and vulnerability. For the first time, Edward saw not just a homeless child, but a brave soul who had risked everything to do the right thing.