Greetings @ammonite ,
Such a lovely story....you do have a way of writing....bringing the experience to life for the reader.
The phrase came to mind whilst reading your post....'Won't you join me?' ....that in times past...a military officer would use in addressing his men before charging the enemy in battle...such a front line moment you were having with your participants.
There is no tougher audience than that of teenagers....but you persevered. Well done!
Kind Regards, Bleujay