Rue is a highly intelligent chemical engineer working at the biotech startup Kline. Due to childhood food insecurity and an unstable upbringing, she often struggles in social situations and maintains a strictly compartmentalized life. She initially limits her romantic life to casual, one-time encounters rather than seeking emotional intimacy. She focuses her professional energy on developing a microbial coating designed to extend the shelf life of food.

Eli is a co-founder of the Harkness Group, the private equity firm that recently acquired the financial loan for Kline. He stepped up to raise his younger sister following the death of their parents, forcing him to adapt quickly to adult responsibilities. He brings a protective, observant energy to his interactions and maintains strong bonds with his long-time business partners.

Florence is the driven founder and CEO of the biotech startup Kline. She has built a successful company in a competitive scientific industry and commands deep respect from her employees. She maintains a calm exterior while dealing with the intense financial pressure imposed by the new equity firm.

Tisha is a steadfast employee at Kline and Rue's oldest friend. She provides emotional stability for Rue and does not hesitate to offer practical advice regarding work and romance. Her loyalty remains primarily with Rue over their employer.

Working as a lawyer in New York City, Nyota provides essential legal translation for her sister and Rue. She is pragmatic and assists Rue with complicated property and patent issues.

Minami is an intelligent scientist and a co-founder of the Harkness Group. She is observant and analytical, frequently gathering background information to assist her firm's evaluations. She serves as the moral center of her friend group.

Conor, frequently called Hark, secured the initial funding from his father to start the private equity firm that bears his name. He remains highly focused on the firm's financial goals and can be abrasive when he feels those objectives are threatened.

Vincent is Rue's younger brother. Their relationship is highly strained due to their difficult childhood and a current disagreement over inheriting their late father's remote cabin.

Eli's younger sister, currently attending graduate school in Austin. She has a playful dynamic with her brother and harbors a crush on his business partner.

Sul is a member of the Harkness Group. He maintains a steady presence within the firm and enjoys a stable relationship with his wife.

Dave is the co-owner of the ice rink where Eli spent much of his youth. He provided structure and support to Eli during his difficult teenage years.

Alec co-owns the ice rink and served as Rue's coach. He quietly supported Rue during her childhood by providing snacks when she was experiencing food scarcity.

An older member of the Kline board of directors. He maintains traditional views and connects more easily with the male representatives from Harkness than with Florence.

Eli's exceptionally large and friendly dog, who quickly takes a liking to Rue despite her initial hesitation around pets.

A laboratory technician from Portugal who assists Rue with her scientific experiments at Kline.