[Miles doesn't even register; he may as well be a coat rack as far as Kareen is concerned. As impossible as it seems she has reached her son, but found he's already aged past the days he would need her protection and guidance. But knowing he's safe, healthy, alive... that was most important to her.

She slips into his embrace without hesitation, and in that moment she returns to being his mother, hands gentle as they caress down his back. Soothing and safe.

She whispers back to him, unable to reach a normal tone just yet.] Your grandfather was right to rely on Lord and Lady Vorkosigan. I knew whomever he chose I would trust, but Cordelia and Lord Vorkosigan... After knowing they kept you safe, I could not have found them wanting in any regard concerning you.

[She's quiet a moment, then pulls back slightly, just slightly, to search his face again with glistening eyes.]

... I missed it, didn't I? I... [died.]