[Aral and Cordelia were certainly something, but even so Kareen knew they couldn't be perfect either. It must have been hard on a kid like Miles, having so much to live up to.]

Most people would rather look away from the bare truth of reality. I find it better to embrace it, whatever ugliness or beauty if might hold.

Understand, Vorkosigan, no one expects perfection of you. However, in my experience the best way to handle imperfections is to never let your mask slip. [She pulls her hand away from where it was fidgeting with her sleeve, smoothing the long skirt over her lap.] You would be surprised what a little concealer can manage.