We went on the Saturday. Benjamin's first time at anything like this - and honestly, it was more than either of us expected.
The NEC was packed. Thousands of people, hundreds of games, an entire industry in one building. We were not there to sell anything. We were there to look, learn, and take the game - and that is exactly what we did.
We met companies that make games. We met manufacturers. We spoke to people who distribute them, who back them, who help indie creators get from a prototype to a shelf. You could see how it all fitted together - making, backing, distributing, getting a game into people's hands.
One thing that stuck with us: we were introduced to the COO of the Game Manufacturers Association (GAMA) - the organisation behind the largest tabletop gaming trade show in the US, based in Baltimore. She was genuinely helpful, looked at what Benjamin had built, and suggested we should think about getting over there.
We are thinking about it.
But the moment that actually mattered most? Other kids played Hungry for Tea. And they loved it. One of them said it was brilliant - a little harsh, but really fun. That is probably the most accurate review it has ever had.
Benjamin came home buzzing. So did I.