Nicole inquired.

Mr. Castillo frowned, disliking the implication. As a man of integrity, he placed great trust in his workplace and disliked any negative implications about the agency.

“I'm sorry, Mr. Castillo. This place is my only hope. I just want to learn more because my child is severely ill, and it's making me very worried," Nicole hastily added.

Mr. Castillo's demeanor softened when he learned of her situation, particularly because he too had become a father to a beautiful Little girl this year. He empathized with parental worries, recognizing that mothers often felt the strain more acutely than fathers.

"In the past, there was a case where an employee manipulated test samples," he explained more gently. “The person involved had accepted bribes and acted independently. Once discovered, they were sentenced to three years and fined heavily. Since that incident, we have implemented stringent background checks on our employees to ensure they have no debts, no gambling habits, and uphold strong ethical standards."

He added, "Look at the numerous warning signs and awareness campaigns throughout our facility. We have ensured our staff are well-compensated, reducing the likelihood of such risks."

Despite his assurances, Nicole retained her doubts. She recognized Mr. Castillo's integrity but remained aware that not everyone might adhere to such high ethical standards. With enough motivation, some might still succumb to temptation.

"Mr. Castillo, could you provide me with a list of recent staff departures?" Nicole inquired.

That request was immediately denied. Despite Nicole's insistence, Mr. Castillo stood firm, committed to preserving his staff's privacy in line with agency protocols.

Then, noticing a poster soliciting volunteer participation, Nicole spotted an opening. “Mr. Castillo, might I volunteer here?" she proposed.

Mr. Castillo regarded her skeptically.

“Believe me. I won't interfere or cause any issues. You can check my references with Mr. Bates," Nicole stated sincerely.

Mr. Castillo still hesitated. "This situation is making me uneasy," he confessed.

"I'm being transparent with you, Mr. Castillo. I simply wish to engage with the staff and understand the reasons behind their departures. I'm not willing to let any opportunity slip by," Nicole stated openly.

Her forthrightness appeared to sway Mr. Castillo, and he contemplated that allowing her to conduct her inquiries might prove beneficial.

Should she uncover nothing suspicious, it would further affirm his trust in the agency's integrity.

Mr. Castillo explained, “To apply for a volunteer position, you'll need to talk to our recruitment officer and undergo an interview with her. I will not interfere for the sake of you."

Nicole expressed her gratitude, “Thank you, Mr. Castillo."

She then sought out the recruitment officer. Although navigating the procedure was somewhat intricate, Nicole successfully completed the volunteer interview.

She committed herself to volunteer two days each week, consistently being the first to arrive and the last to leave.