Laera, a prosperous woman hailing from Bakura, took in Malinza Thanas as her own daughter following the passing of her biological parents, Pter Thanas and Gaeriel Captison.
Malinza affectionately addressed her as "Aunt Laera," considering her the sole remaining member of her family. Considering Gaeriel only had a single sister, Ylanda, and Pter's relatives resided off-world, it's highly probable that Laera was not a blood relative. The term "aunt" was likely used as a sign of deep affection, mirroring Malinza's relationship with Luke Skywalker, whom she referred to as "Uncle Luke" and considered family.