Do you like free stuff? I like free stuff.
How about free stories? Sure, why not. It let’s you get to know a writer without the monetary commitment. And if you don’t like the story, it’s a lot easier to quit reading it without the guilt associated with wasted money (just maybe a little guilt for wasted time).
But if you like the story? It might lead you to explore the writer’s other works and invest your money in their career.
In the end, it’s a win-win.
Free is good.