Revelation

“Hey, mom?” Aurora asked, peaking her head into Helen's office. She waited for her mom to take off her headset and turn around in her chair.

“Hey, sweetie,” Helen replied. “What's up?” She was still obviously in code-space. It was the time when she was most... human. Less mom-like. Aurora hoped that made for good timing.

“Um,” Aurora started. “I know you've been bugging me about always getting home late, lately. And I'm really sorry I snapped at you yesterday...”

“It's okay,” Helen said. “There's a lot going on. I didn't mean to pressure you. I just want you to be safe.”

Aurora smiled, genuinely. No matter what had come between them lately, she could always trust in that. “Well, there's a very specific reason I've been out so much. A very specific... person.”

Helen laughed and clapped her hands. “I had hoped it was just that! It is about time! Who is the lucky boy? Is he at your school?”

Aurora flushed, looking away. She had to go through with this, though. She'd come this far. “Actually, mom...” With a deep breath, Aurora gestured down the hall and invited Isabella into view. “Do you remember Isabella?”

Helen paused, looking confused for a moment. No stopping now! Aurora looked to Isabella for permission, receiving a shy nod in return. “She's... my girlfriend.”

Something clicked in Helen's head and her smile returned, redoubled. Jumping out of her seat, she stood in front of Isabella and spread her arms to offer a hug. Isabella gladly accepted. “I remember you,” Helen said. “My daughter has wonderful taste.”