“I should confess our deception,” Helix said. “And attempt to make amends with them as well. Whatever task they require to view our association favorably, I shall accomplish it.”

Alarmed, Qalu grasped his forelimb. “No! Under no circumstances should you admit that we lied in the beginning. It’s the truth now, isn’t it? That will just complicate the situation pointlessly. They don’t need to know every last detail.”

“Are you certain that’s the correct course? I thought you prized honesty.”

“Maybe not where my mothers are concerned. They love me. They want the best for me. But sometimes our ideas on that diverge. I don’t think we should confide your origins, and we certainly can’t tell them that we weren’t on vacation at all—that we were running away from some criminals you’d offended.” She paused, suddenly even more concerned. “You didn’t plan on confessing that, did you?”

After a telling pause, Helix said, “Not anymore.”

“You can be honest with me. My mothers…let me decide what we share with them.”

“As you wish,” said Helix.

“Tell her to bring my favorite treat!” Aevi added.

Inatol often spoiled the Pherzul with specially-made tidbits, and the little one enjoyed her choice of delectable snacks. With any luck, her mothers would be so pleased to see all of them that they’d keep the scolding to a minimum. Bracing herself, she activated the comm and Solsan appeared on screen. A stroke of luck—none of her altmothers would be as difficult as Inatol.

“We’re back!” she said, before Solsan could speak. “I convinced Helix to give Tiralan a chance, and he said he can live anywhere, as long as I’m with him.” More drama and romance than she’d usually choose to convey, but it might distract her alt-mother.

“We’ve all been so worried about you, Qalu! Vanishing like you did was utterly irresponsible and inconsiderate.” Since it was Solsan, even the chastisement sounded gentle.

“But you were always telling me that I was too wrapped up in my work and that I needed to listen to my heart more.” In all honesty, she couldn’t recall which of her mothers had said it; they all agreed with the basic sentiment.

“There is a difference between socializing more and absconding with someone you barely know!” Inatol stepped into view near Solsan, her expression rigid with angry disapproval.

This conversation just turned in the wrong direction.

“True, but I followed your advice, my dearest Foremother. I left the lab and had an adventure, viewed amazing new sights and enriched my spirit. I’m also ready to commit to a love group with Helix, which may eventually mean offspring that you’ll get to spoil, just as you do Aevi. Remember how you despaired of me ever finding anyone but a Pherzul to share my life? We should focus on the positive aspect, not what mistakes I may have made.”