So, Jeremy gave her $10,000 before they got divorced, because Abigail said that would be all she would need to finish getting her master’s degree and start teaching. And that was it. For the next 10 years after getting her degree, Abigail worked as a teacher. She liked her job and the people she worked with. Unfortunately, a tornado wiped out the entire school and half the town. Many teachers got laid off. Abigail spent a month visiting family and friends, but then had to find a new job.
She decided to change careers. To do so, she needed to go back to school for two years. Her tuition and living expenses would cost her $25,000. She called Jeremy. She and Jeremy had remained friendly over the years.
“Jeremy, I need a big favor,” she said over the phone.
“Sure, Abi, you name it,” Jeremy replied agreeably. Jeremy had a great job and a good life. She told him that she had been laid off, and she needed $25,000 for a degree and a new career. The friendliness left Jeremy’s voice. She reminded him of his promise ten years ago to help her out whenever she needed it.
“Yeah, Abi, but that was ten years ago. That’s history now, right? Have you tried your local bank?”