I was just trying to help a little. - Kai Lin

Kai Lin and Deborah were hired as temporary staff of an organisation at the same time. They were assigned to work closely together on various projects.

Over the first few weeks, Deborah began to tell Kai Lin of her unfortunate circumstances.

Her grandfather was unwell and the family could not pay the medical bills. Her brother was unemployed and depressed. Her mother was working very long hours and barely making ends meet in her laborious job.

Kai Lin felt sympathetic. She began to buy Deborah meals. "Don't worry about it," she would say when Deborah offered to pay her back. "I know things are tight for you."

Then Deborah began to ask for small amounts of money. Twenty dollars here. Thirty dollars there. Kai Lin readily handed it over. These were small sums, and Deborah clearly needed help.

But the requests grew. Soon Deborah was asking for hundreds of dollars at a time.

Kai Lin hesitated. This felt different. This was significant money.

Deborah noticed the hesitation. She pleaded. "I promise to return the money as soon as possible. You know my situation. I wouldn't ask if I wasn't desperate."

Kai Lin felt trapped. They were working closely together every day. She wanted to maintain a positive connection. Saying no might make things awkward. Uncomfortable even.

She transferred the money.

More requests came. Each time, Deborah promised repayment. Each time, the repayment never materialised.

Kai Lin began to dread seeing Deborah's name pop up on her phone. Was it about work? Or another request?

Their temporary contracts were coming to an end.

Kai Lin realised: She might never see that money again.