The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 375

Ruby nodded. "I know. If it weren't for Jamie, I wouldn't even have my current job. But it seems like he doesn't really want to help us too much..." She pointed into the distance. "Aaron, the exit is over there."

The two walked out to the back garden, found a shady spot, and sat down on a bench.

Aaron prompted her again. "Is your brother's injury really severe? Or did something else happen at home?"

Sorrow filled Ruby's eyes. She paused, then choked out, "My brother is a nightmare. Not only has he nearly drained my parents' savings, but for the past year, he's been after my salary too. If I refuse to give it to them, my mom comes to my movie set and makes a massive scene. I got into acting hoping to become a star one day. But now? After her pulling these stunts, my crew leader hates me. I barely even get extra roles anymore..."

Ruby placed the gift basket beside her on the bench and continued to vent. "So for over a year now, the second I get paid, I have to hand over half of it to my mom. Sometimes more. I've even had to start buying cheap skincare and clothes... I told her to go ask Jamie for help, but she seems terrified of him now. She won't dare approach him, and she forbids us from telling anyone about our connection to the Baylor family..."

Aaron listened quietly to her grievances.

Of course Margaret was terrified. Jamie had made it crystal clear: he would decide if and when he helped them. But if they dared to parade their connection to the Baylor family in public, there would be hell to pay. Aaron knew Jamie just didn't want Margaret using the Baylor name to run scams and ruin their reputation.

Ruby nodded, looking confused. "You're right. Suzie was gentle and kind. She would never just abandon her brother. We all figured he was just delirious from passing out..."

"That's definitely it," Aaron agreed smoothly. "I've seen it a lot. People who get beaten up often suffer from confusion and hallucinations."

With this casual chatter, Aaron felt he was slowly breaking down Ruby's defenses.