This story by Francisco Sionil José follows a courtship between a Filipino accountant and young Chinese woman. The relationship faces opposition from their families as inter-cultural (especially Filipino-Chinese) marriages are frowned upon by both communities. Moreover, one obstacle not easily overcome is a “tong” (debt that must be repaid). The girl is promised to a fat, bald Chinese man old enough to be her father in exchange for favors done for her family. After a passionate final night together, they are separated forever. Themes include forbidden love, cultural division and conflict, socioeconomic inequality, exploitation/human trafficking, family honor and loyalty.