I quite like the relationship between Aria and her mother. She may not be the best parent, but she clearly cares for and is protective of Aria. She has said she wants Aria to be happy. Conversely, Aria is trying to protect her from Mielle and wants revenge for what Mielle did to her mother as well as herself. They may not have an ideal loving and affectionate relationship, but they stick together. They’re practical. That’s quite realistic for their circumstances. It’s rare to see a living mother with a positive relationship with the main character, so it’s refreshing.