Ray asked him as he walked past later that day. Dane stopped the sander and raised his protective mask. “Everything okay?” Ray nodded. “Yeah. No rush. Whenever you’re finished.” Dane watched his boss walk back to his office and his mind reeled as he finished sanding the propeller. Was there a problem with his work? He knew he was coming in tired a lot lately, having been training until midnight or later every night, but he was still showing up and getting the required work done. Finishing the propeller, he shut off the machine and headed toward the office. He knocked once and entered. “Hey. Is now a good time?” Ray waved him in. “Perfect. Have a seat.” He sat. “Is everything okay? I know I’ve been a little off the last few weeks.” Ray shook his head. “You’re doing fine, son.” Son.
