Suddenly, a small whirlwind of energy barrelled towards Emily.
"Aunt Emily!" Ryan's high-pitched voice rang out as he crashed into her legs, arms flinging around her in a fierce hug. Emily let out a soft laugh, bending down to scoop him up into her arms.
"Well, look at you!" Emily grinned, brushing a few strands of hair from his face. "You've gotten even taller since I last saw you."
Ryan grinned wide.
"I missed you! You should live with us again, like before." his eyes sparkled with hope, and for a moment, Emily's heart softened.