My kidnapping didn't happen all at once. It was a process. I believe 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. If it doesn't work out, I can come back with my debts paid, and advance my career elsewhere.
Of course, I accepted the position.
Before that, I guess you could say that I was at a low point in my life, although, I didn't think of it that way. 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.
I 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 rapid change. I couldn't be happier. I was going to step into a new life.
The company arranged to pack up my stuff, ship what I wanted to take with me, and store the rest. I sorted, labeled, and packed my stuff. After packing the things to take with me, I was ready to go. The movers would take care of the rest.
I was told I did not need to take much with me. I would be given a company credit card to buy new clothes and household items. My new apartment 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 that would take me to a plane in Seattle, where I would transfer to another flight to Taiwan. Everything seemed normal until I reached Taiwan.
