Noah had been quiet, just supporting Mr. Meijer in case he fainted, and watching the grown ups argue. He had looked away during the stitching but had found his eyes wandering back out of curiosity. Then he would turn them away again, when he realized he did not enjoy that sight.

"Aye, I will work 'arder," he quickly affirmed when Mr. Meijer's brother mentioned him.

Wait. He shouldn't give them the impression that he wasn't already working his hardest. Too late.