Oliver, a spirited four-year-old, sat on the edge of his seat, his eyes wide with wonder at the game unfolding before him. His mother, Susan, kept a watchful eye on him, her smile soft as she watched her son's enthusiasm. "Mom, did you see that goal?" he exclaimed, his voice barely audible over the roar of the crowd.
Susan gathered her things, "Come on, Oliver, it's time to go home," she called, reaching out for his hand. But Oliver, still buzzing with adrenaline, saw an opportunity for adventure. He slipped away from his mother's grasp, his small feet quickly carrying him towards the exit.
Oliver giggled to himself, feeling like an explorer on a grand quest. He darted between legs and bags, his small stature making it easy to navigate the bustling crowd. Meanwhile, Susan realized with growing panic that her son had disappeared into the throng.
Susan's heart pounded in her chest as she searched desperately, "Oliver! Oliver!" she called, her voice cracking with fear. Around her, people glanced in sympathy but continued on their way. The world seemed to blur as she pushed through the crowd, her mind racing with worry.
Oliver found himself at the curb, his eyes drawn to the colorful lights of a nearby ice cream van. Without thinking, he stepped off the sidewalk, just as a car rounded the corner. The screech of brakes filled the air, followed by a collective gasp from onlookers.
Susan pushed through the crowd, her heart in her throat as she reached the scene. Relief and fear washed over her as she saw Oliver, unharmed but shaken, being comforted by a kind stranger. "Mom!" he cried, reaching out. She rushed to his side, enveloping him in a tight embrace, tears streaming down her face. "Thank goodness you're okay," she whispered, holding him close as the world slowly regained its balance.
