"...What matters most is that each individual is in the most positive working environment possible. America's presence here was not only a burden to herself, but to everyone on the ship. She is an asset to this program, but I realized that she would not perform to her full potential under these circumstances. As Head Supervisor, I had a duty to transfer her to a ship where she would be more efficient, and hopefully happier...Enjoy your breakfast, Miss Babel."
Chris couldn't keep the surprise from his face. He'd seen the girl's outburst, and he still wished his attempt at friendship hadn't exploded into this craziness. He would hardly call her a burden though. It was obvious that the powers that be would be tolerating very little. He only hoped Dr. Zhao didn't really believe that he'd been picking on the poor girl. He'd offered her a seat. Oh well. He'd have to be careful with who he reached out to, that much was obvious.
He gave a small smile and nodded to Valia and the doctor as he tried to blend into the scenery. He hurried through the doors, grabbing the first things on the buffet line, which seemed to be pancakes and some kind of cooked cereal, gruel, or perhaps protein powder. He grabbed a table near the front, keeping his backpack close, and dug in. He tasted nothing, too eager to meet his lab area, which he awaited with more relish than the idea of his future spouse being aboard.