Ruby's eyes became slightly red as she looked away, shaking in her voice. "I will try to juggle my work with doing deliveries. I won't let it get in the way of the experiments.".

I gave Ruby a gentle pat on the shoulder and a bank card. "Now that you don't wish to discuss your problems, I won't ask any questions. This should cover you until next month. If it doesn't, come back and let me know. Don't make delivery runs for the time being."

Ruby attempted to refuse. "No. Sofia, you've done enough for me. I can't—

Before she could go on, I pushed the card solidly into her...