"That only leaves the question of research space," Dr. Ellison says.
Blankenship brightens. "Ah, very good, I'm excited to resume more formal research after my ad hoc in-the-field work. I don't suppose my lab is still available?"
You're already sharing an office and your classes with him. How much more will he take?
"It's not available. Gabriel and I have set up shop in it—"
"Ah, Gabriel is still studying pattern magic?" Blankenship scratches his neat beard. "That's unexpected but helpful. I could use an extra pair of hands, even if they're not as skilled as I might hope."
He wants to steal your advisee, too? After sidelining him?
Dr. Ellison saves you from having to protest. "It is premature to talk about reassigning Gabriel to another project in the last semester of his senior year."
Blankenship sighs. "All right. We can revisit his status later."
"In the meantime, let's look at the lab space and see how it might accommodate both of you. If you do end up sharing, Dr. ., I will decrease the amount you pay monthly from your startup funds."
Given that you're out of startup funds, you may not be able to refuse this offer.
Next