Maya's look is too... real

The three family members exited the office on to the sidewalk in stunned, contemplative silence. The dynamic was never this morose. Maya was generally a bundle of fast-igniting energy, and Dana and Matthew... well, at least laughingly tolerated it. Now Dana walked to the car alone, so clearly lost in thought over her diagnosis. And Maya was stood still, nearly heaving.

Matthew stepped back to speak privately with his step-daughter.

"Honey," he rasped quietly, "I'm so sorry that your mother hasn't been supportive of your procedures." He brushed a lock of her hair out of her eyes.

"M-my... procedures?" She shook free from a shiver.

Matthew bowed his head sympathetically, "Well, that meeting we just had? It didn't happen, remember? AGS is just a rumor anyway."

Maya's open eyes misted over.

He urgently whispered, "We're coming from your third plastic surgery appointment, and your stubborn momma said no again!" He tutted in mock indignation, the tone lost on the girl. "You and your dad both know you need that combo nose job, BBL, and boob job, and we both agreed to make her life a living hell until she agrees, right?"

Maya issued an uncertain nod.

"Good job, honey. Now, cover your ears and follow me when you've caught your breath."

Her step-father smiled, and jogged after his wife to get her up to speed on their new reality.