Evelyn did not become their grandmother in the emotional sense simply because she said the right words.

But she listened and allowed the boys to decide when to leave.

In the car, Asher said he thought she seemed lonely.

“Loneliness doesn’t excuse what she did,” Mason answered.

“No,” Asher said.

“I just noticed.”

I was proud of both of them.

One could feel compassion while the other held a boundary.