Sophie Kept Pointing Toward the Hallway — Then the Camera Showed a Woman Grandma Margaret Hadn’t Seen in 26 Years
Chapter 9 — Sophie Gets the Truth Too
Emily did not forget about Sophie.
The little girl had been terrified by a stranger entering her bedroom.
Even if that stranger was family.
Elaine asked permission before returning.
This time, she used the front door.
Sophie stayed beside Emily.
Elaine crouched a safe distance away.
“I’m sorry I scared you.”
Sophie looked at her.
“You came in my room.”
Elaine nodded.
“I did.”
“Mommy wasn’t home.”
“I know.”
“That’s bad.”
Elaine smiled sadly.
“You’re right.”
Emily appreciated that.
No excuses.
Elaine explained she had wanted Grandma Margaret to find a photograph.
She believed hiding it in the bunny would be harmless.
She had not expected Sophie to return early from a playdate.
Sophie had seen Elaine in the hallway.
Elaine told her:
“It’s okay. I’m family.”
But Sophie had never seen her before.
The words frightened her more.
Then Elaine left quickly.
“Why didn’t you stay?” Sophie asked.
Elaine thought about that.
“Because grown-ups get scared too.”
Sophie looked toward Margaret.
“Grandma knows you now?”
Margaret smiled through tears.
“I always knew her.”
She reached for Elaine’s hand.
“I just stopped being part of her life for a very long time.”
Sophie looked confused.
Then said:
“That’s a long timeout.”
Everyone laughed.
Even Elaine.
