Sparks burst out the top, and the news story fizzled out. All the racing green lights went amber, and we were left with the sound of failed wires, and circuit board glitches.

"Worked longer last time," he cracked open the new can.

"I've heard enough, I'll stick with my decision."

"Here's to the crazy ones."

"Right back at you!" we clashed the beer so hard one-third of it went spilling on the floor, but from the euphoria inside the ensuing laughter, you could ...