Olivia walked toward the photograph out of curiosity.
She carefully picked it up.
The image showed two smiling little girls sitting together while holding a worn teddy bear.
The photograph was faded.
Creased.
Clearly treasured for many years.
Olivia stared at it.
Her heart began racing.
"I've seen this before."
She looked closely at the younger girl.
Then at the teddy bear.
It looked exactly like one from her own childhood photo albums.
Slowly, Olivia approached Emma.
Holding the picture with shaking hands, she whispered,
"Who gave you this?"
Emma gently wiped tears from her face.
"My little sister."
"It was taken..."
"...before they took me away."
The ballroom became completely silent.
Olivia's eyes filled with tears.
"What was your name..."
"...before foster care?"
Emma answered quietly.
"Emma Collins."
Olivia covered her mouth.
"My God..."