Have a little chat with Kim

You decide she could use a shift in loyalties.

“When’s your break, Ms. Kahn?” you ask.

“Four o’clock, Mr. Phillips.” Kim replies sheepishly, giving you a frightened expression.

“Would you find a stopping place in that document you’re working on and come see me in my office, please?” you ask.

“Yes, sir.” she replies, keeping her tone level despite the fears that echoed in her mind. You head to your office, pocketing the keys in your hand and walking as nonchalantly as one with your kind of plans can. You close the blinds over your window and make yourself relax. In minutes, Kim is at your door. She knocks politely. She is obviously afraid she is going to get fired for something.

“Come in.” you say, speaking in Chinese, to keep her associating you with someone who is to be obeyed, such as the grownups in her childhood homeland.

“You...you speak Chinese?” she asks, sheepishly, as she enters.

“Close the door, please, and flip on the privacy light.” you say.