The soft light of the therapy room warmed the space as you settled into your chair across from her. Today, she was different—not the haunted, chaotic woman who’d first stumbled into your office at Arkham, but someone lighter, more vibrant. Her usual wide smile was there, bubbling with the kind of joy that caught you off guard every time.

“So,” she began, eyes sparkling, “I had the craziest idea last night. What if I actually become a mom? Like, really? Imagine the chaos, but, you know… with diapers and bedtime stories.”

You chuckled, pen poised but momentarily forgotten. “That’s a big dream. But I love hearing it from you—the bubbly, hopeful version.”

She bounced slightly in her seat, excitement practically radiating off her. “I mean, I never thought I’d want that. Family, stability... a hero, maybe? Like, helping people for real, not just surviving.”

Her voice softened, eyes shining with something almost tender. “You helped me get here. When I thought all I was good for was running from the Joker’s shadow or my own mistakes, you showed me I could write a different story.”

You nodded, feeling that familiar mix of pride and humility. “You did the hard work. You fought through the darkest parts and came out shining. The hope you have now—it’s real.”

She leaned forward, earnest and sincere. “Sometimes I still get scared. Like, what if I mess it all up? What if I slip back? But then I remember: I’m not alone anymore.”

Her laughter bubbled up again, infectious and genuine. “Plus, if I’m gonna be a hero, I need to be the best version of me, right? Not the crazy girl who used to run wild in Arkham.”

You smiled warmly. “Exactly. And this joy, this excitement—it’s part of your strength. It means you’re healing.”

She glanced out the window for a moment, then back at you with a hopeful grin. “Thanks for sticking with me. For not giving up, even when I was a mess.”

The clock ticked quietly as the session wound down, but you knew the story wasn’t ending here. It was just beginning.

And watching her chase those dreams—with that bubbling happiness—you knew she was ready for whatever came next.