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It's Not Bad to be Single!

"Docking", in the industry of sex work, is slang referring to how sex workers could quit the industry as they find a guy to marry. Sum, having worked at a One-sex worker Apartment for more than a decade, once believed in quitting sex work by "docking" as well. After a few years of unsuccessful marriage, she returned to sex work. Sum confesses, "nowadays I don't aim to make a lot of money, I do it to meet my old clients. Sometimes work isn't about sex service, simply hanging around, dining and chatting together already bring much happiness." The mutual understanding and bonding established with her clients helps her regain comfort and relaxation.

A few years ago, Sum helped her husband pay his more than HK $1 million gambling debt. The help was not reciprocated as her husband disappeared, which made Sum decide to divorce. The harsh times throughout these years caused her to suffocate from negative emotions. What's worse, since most of her friends are married and raising children already, she struggled to find someone to talk to and often felt lonely. Such a situation reminded her of some old clients she knew years ago and spent a great time with. Therefore, even though she does not face any immediate financial difficulties, she returns to sex work on her loneliest days with the hope that she will rediscover the more relaxed her, just as she was in the old days.

Hearing about her return, the old clients have shown care for her, such as accompanying her to outings. They interact like like-minded friends rather than service provider and clients. Sum often hangs out with her old clients and starts to focus on her life by arranging activities for herself every day and even picking up sports, which all help her recover her confidence that was long lost in her divorce. Sum has not entirely gotten over her failure in marriage, but she would remind herself right away: you can still live a good life on your own, no need to rush.

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