The moment Emma saw the woman standing in the doorway , her world seemed to shatter . Her legs turned to jelly , and she nearly collapsed to the ground in shock . She couldnt tear her a face she knew all too well . It was the face that haunted eyes away from the womans face her dreams , the face of the woman who had once been the love of Davids life . A breathless, broken whisper escaped Emmas lips as she called out , Sister . Sophie , sensing the growing tension in the room , gave Emma a subtle glance before quietly excusing herself . Uh , I think Ill just … give you two some space . Catch you later , Emma , she said , slipping out of the room without another word , leaving Emma standing frozen at the doorway . The air in the room grew thick with awkwardness as Emma and her sister , Allison , stood facing each other . For a moment , neither spoke , the silence hanging heavily between them . Then , finally , Allison took a small step forward , her smile gentle as she opened her arms . Emma , she said softly , her eyes glinting with a mixture of warmth and something else Emma couldnt quite place . Look at you . Youve grown so much … and so beautiful , too . Emma swallowed hard , the words catching in her throat . It felt like a lifetime had passed since shed seen her sister . But here she was , standing before her , smiling as if nothing had changed . Allison … Emma finally managed to say , her voice hoarse . Allison stepped closer and wrapped her arms around Emma in a light embrace . Youre not that little girl anymore , she said with a soft laugh . The one who always followed me and David around , covering for us whenever we needed it . Youve really grown up , havent you ? Emmas heart ached at the familiar words , the memories flooding back in an overwhelming rush . She hesitated before slowly returning the hug , her hands trembling slightly . Its … been a long time , she murmured in a long time . Allison pulled back slightly , her gaze studying Emmas face with a mixture of nostalgia and fondness . It has , she agreed , her smile turning almost wistful . Too long . But look at you now , Youve turned into such a stunning young woman , not that geeky , shy Emma who always wanted to fit in at all cost . Im so proud of you .