You're very smart, DoroMona. I think your plan to minimize contact with your lonely, awkward coworker is great. Do NOT let guilt consume you either. You are not responsible for making her feel better. Do NOT Zoom with the woman if she drives you batty. Just stop agonizing about her as she is an adult and her problems are HERS not yours. You are a good person but you don't need to take care of your coworker's feelings or needs. Since she checks your mutual boss' email for updates, that's perfect. Good luck with it. And remember what Nancy Reagan said, "JUST SAY NO!" lolz