Burn Me Once Burn With Me (Ruby Grayson) novel Chapter 10

The young mother knelt in the puddle, clutching her baby, her silent tears falling unnoticed into the dirty water.

The scene was quiet—yet somehow deafening.

The influencer, who just moments ago had been shouting "Come on, everyone, send those gifts!" suddenly lowered her phone, cheeks burning with embarrassment. She fumbled for words, her bravado evaporating.

"I—I'm sorry, really. I was just trying to get more followers," she stammered. "That driver was out of line. Let me help you get the word out."

Ruby's sobs faded, though her voice was still hoarse. She shook her head, tugging her scarf up to hide her face even more. "Please, can you delete the video?" Her words were barely above a whisper.

The influencer stared into Ruby's tear-bright hazel eyes—such beautiful eyes, she thought, what a waste…

Faced with that steady, clear gaze, it felt impossible to refuse. She scrambled for her phone. "Of course, of course—I'm deleting it, see?"

"Thank you," Ruby murmured, then turned away to pick up the broom and sweep away the standing water.

Once this puddle was gone, her shift would be finished for the day, and Mira would be hungry by now.

Mira, no matter what, your mother will work any job to give you a better life—even if it means sweeping the streets.

A minute later, Ruby pushed her cleaning cart away in silence.

Her figure looked frail, but her steps were steady and determined.

Only after she left did the small crowd snap out of their trance.

"She's so young. Why on earth would she end up as a street cleaner?"

"Maybe this is some kind of social experiment video or something?"

Their skepticism quickly turned to disdain.

"These days, people will do anything for money."

"Bet that fancy car was part of the setup, too."

"There's just no limit to what people will do for attention!"

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