"Doris, you've been working here for a month now. Let's settle the accounts. Originally, the three of us would use half a bucket of oil a month, but you use two buckets. I'll deduct the cost of the extra bucket from your salary.
"Just the two of you spend four thousand dollars on groceries a month? I see you only cook three vegetables and one meat dish per meal. How can it cost that much? Are you including your son's food in this?
"Oh, right, your son's water and electricity usage will be divided equally and deducted from your salary.
"This month, your son broke our toilet. The repair cost will also be deducted from your salary."
With each sentence, Doris' face darkened.
She couldn't take it anymore and angrily threw the mop she was holding, putting her hands on her hips. "Ollie, what's your problem? You're just finding excuses to deduct my salary, aren't you?"
I spread my hands. "Doris, let's be reasonable. Who brings their kid to work as a housekeeper? Your kid's food and lodging aren't free, are they? When you started, you didn't mention bringing your kid. Plus, your cooking isn't good, and you don't clean properly. You can't even do basic work. Isn't it fair to deduct your salary? If you can do the job, do it. If not, quit."
Doris twisted her body and squeezed out tears, seeking help from my dad.
"Mr. Taylor, please help me. You agreed to let me bring my kid when I started. Now Miss Taylor is using this to deduct my salary. She's deliberately making things difficult for me."
My dad picked up the cup next to him and threw it at me.
"I'm very satisfied with Doris. Don't make trouble and nitpick. If Doris leaves, you'll be in big trouble."
"Fine, Dad. Doris' salary is seven thousand dollars a month. Your pension is five thousand dollars a month. You can make up the difference yourself."
My dad's face darkened.
