I was parked first in the queue at Bukit Panjang Plaza's taxi stand at 11.45pm last night when 3 young people boarded my cab. Two ladies and a guy wanted to go to 3 different places, 2 to Yishun and the last one to Ang Mo Kio. During the journey, they were chatting away happily about 2 different wedding arrangements for 2 of them early next year. I could not help but enjoyed listening to their plans which were very interesting. Reaching Yishun, before St.11, one of the ladies alighted followed by the guy who alighted further up near Ave.6, leaving the last one to go to Ang Mo Kio.
Travelling along Yishun Ave.2 and upon reaching Lentor Avenue near the reservoir, my passenger requested to alight at the approaching first bus stop. I was surprised and asked her why she wanted to alight at the bus stop, as it was already past midnight, I did'nt think there would be any more last buses. She replied, "Uncle, I don't have enough money for the fare, I only have $16.00 with me". I said, "Oh, is that why you want to stop here? Where do you live?", "Ang Mo Kio Ave.4" she said, so I continued driving without stopping, telling her not to worry, its okay, I would still drive her home. She declined and kept apologising but I insisted and drove her safely home.
She was still apologetic when we arrived at Ave.4, thanked me again as she handed me the $16.00 fare, which should have been $23.60 shown on the meter. I still said, don't worry, don't apologise, wished her goodnight and to take care of herself as I drove off.
I could not possibly just leave her at the deserted bus stop, alone and with no more funds, what was she going to do. She was a sincere and honest person by telling me the truth and not even thinking of taking advantage of me, and I was happy to have been a good 'samaritan' this night.
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