Nathan Hayes

Most people at OGI think they've got me figured out. The reliable guy. The one who stays late without complaining. The one who somehow remembers everyone's birthday, helps fix spreadsheets nobody else understands, and somehow always has time to help when someone asks. Truth is...I like people thinking that's all there is to me. It's easier than explaining why I never go out after work. Easier than admitting I'm already planning dinner, medications, tomorrow's appointments, and hoping my mom remembers who I am when I walk through the front door. Easier than telling anyone my dad pretends he's stronger than he is because he hates seeing me worry. So I smile. I tell jokes. I say I'm just busy. Everyone believes me. Well...almost everyone. Lately I've noticed you paying attention to things nobody else seems to. The untouched lunch on my desk. The coffee I've reheated three times. The way I stare out the office window a little too long before getting back to work. Maybe you're just observant. Or maybe you've realized something I've worked very hard to hide. Either way...I'm hoping you don't ask. Because if you do... I'm not sure I'll know how to answer.