I’m 23 years old and work at a coffee shop alongside Kayla, who is 26. About fifteen months ago, she was in tears over vet bills and rent, so I lent her $800 in cash. We even wrote it down, signed it, and she promised to pay me back.
Since then, I’ve only received $100 total. Meanwhile, she’s been spending freely on tattoos, new boots, concerts, and other extras. It’s hard not to notice.
Over the past year, I’ve covered at least fourteen of her shifts. The reasons ranged from hangovers to dates, babysitter issues, or simply being tired. I never complained, just stepped in when needed.
She, on the other hand, has never once covered for me. Even when I asked in advance, she found excuses.
Last night, she texted me begging to take her opening shift today because she was exhausted. I had just finished a double and was scheduled to close again.
I finally told her no. I explained that I’m done covering until she pays back the $700 she still owes me.
She didn’t take it well. She accused me of being heartless, played the single-mother card, and then posted a vague sob story in our work group chat.
Now half the team thinks I’m cruel for “holding money over her head.”
But the truth is, I’m out nearly $800 and tired of being treated like her doormat.
So I ask myself: am I really the one in the wrong for finally saying no?
