It's bad to inflict illness upon yourself.
Several of James coworker's have been diagnosed with COVID, but James has to work with them on a  work project.
James wants to make money.
James and his coworkers work on the project remotely.
James works close to them without a mask and protective gear.
James is able to get more done by himself because he doesn't have to worry about safety concerns.
James gets COVID, and he passes it on to his family.