"Ava," her mother admonished, giving her a disapproving glare. The commander made it seem like the disagreements and arguments they had were such small things. He was right, they were few and far between, but they were explosive-- at least in the beginning. She was more respectful about voicing her opinions and speaking her mind when she was displeased. Unfortunately, she had to learn those skills the hard way. Still, it was somewhat amusing to look back on their first days together now that they we're on better terms and had come to understand one another.<br/><br/>The even sound of ARIA's voice brought the bit of laughter to a gradual halt. The slight awkwardness and tension was just beginning to fade, which would have made for more comfortable conversation and interaction, but she was ready to go. When the commander looked at his screen and left the ball in her court to decide, she rose to her feet. " We should start heading back. It's kind of a long trip." She announced, brushing her hands over her skirt.<br/><br/>"Of course," her mother said, pushing herself up alongside her father. "We'll walk you out. Do you need anything from your room? ARIA can fetch it for you."<br/><br/>"No, I think I have everything I need." Ava assured her, moving through the doors that ARIA held open for them. "We'll send someone if I need need something." She turned and hugged her mother when they reached the SUV, then her father.<br/><br/>"Colonel, it was a pleasure to meet you. You're welcome to our home any time. We hope we can see you and Ava again soon." Her mother said, extending her hand to him while Ava and her father exchanged a few hushed words.<br/><br/>"It was, actually. I expected someone . . . Different. I apologize if anything I've said has come off as rude. I hope you understand, I just want what's best for her. For the first time in my life, I can't protect her and that's been harder than you can ever know." He said extending his hand to the commander.