"Uncle Oscar," Evelyn repeated faintly.
Oliver nodded enthusiastically, crunching the chip. After swallowing it, he continued, "Uncle Oscar said 'Daddy needs to work so I can eat, and my horse can eat, and Mommy can buy nice things.'"
Evelyn closed her eyes for a brief second, already imagining the conversation she would eventually have with Oscar. She exhaled slowly, choosing peace.
"Well," she said, opening her eyes again, "Uncle Oscar talks too much."
Oliver giggled, clearly proud of his source.
Evelyn glanced at the tray.
"Alright, that's the last snack you can eat. Or you won't be able to eat your lunch."
Oliver stared at the remaining snacks as if saying goodbye to old friends. After a moment, he nodded solemnly. "Okay…"
He moved to the sofa and sat closer to her, resting his head against her arm. Evelyn wrapped an arm around him instinctively, pulling him close.
"Mommy?" he asked softly.
"Yes, sweetheart?"
