I didn't understand the article until I read your comment!

I'd never point at someone's cake in someone's house and ask for a slice.

Except for a really good friend, but I'd simply point to his cake and tell him I'm going to eat it. He would either say yes or tell me why I couldn't and neither of us would take offence either way.

I've learnt to shoot down inappropriate ask request right away. Lending you money? No, I don't lent out money.

Life pro tip: never tell people you have money.