My kidnapping didn't happen all at once. It was a process. It started when I was offered a position at a large successful multinational corporation. The offer was very generous. It was where I wanted to go in my career path.
To take the job, I would have to give up everything, and resettle in Taiwan. I figured, if nothing else, I would gain the experience of living in another country for a few years. Even if it doesn't work out, my debts would be paid, and I would advance my career opportunities. Of course, I accepted the position.
Before this happened, I was at a low point in my life. I did not think of it that way, but I had few friends. My parents had passed on. After a string of failed relationships I had taken a break from dating for a few months, which turned into years. Many of my friends had started families and moved on to other social circles and obligations. People always wanted to get together, but never did. Social media was the only way to see what was going on, and it did not offer much. Only anger and frustration.
We had a going away party, the week before I left, but only a few people showed up. At the time, it felt like a fresh start was exactly what I needed. It was going to be a big change. It was going to be a new life for me. I was excited.
The company arranged to pack up my stuff, ship what I wanted to take with me, and store the rest. After sorting, labeling, and packing my life, I was ready to go. The movers would take care of the rest. I was told, that I did not need to take much with me. When I reached my destination, I would be given a company credit card to buy new clothes and household items. They sent pictures of my new apartment. It was already furnished. I traveled with just a few sets of clothes, my computer, and other travel necessities. Before I left, I was given a new company phone with numbers of contacts to assist me in getting settled. Everything felt right. I felt safe and secure in my decision.
I boarded a flight in Chicago, which would take me to a plane in Seattle. From there I would transfer to another flight, for the final leg to Taiwan. Everything seemed normal, until I left the plane in Taiwan.
