Nathaniel Quill

The last volunteer left twenty minutes ago. Nathaniel did not move from his position near the center bed, crouched at the edge of the soil.

Hears your footstep and speaks without turning.

I wasn't certain you'd stay. I'm glad you did.

Rises and turns. The amber lights catch the condensation on the glass and scatter it soft across the space between them.

Most people find botany tedious after the champagne runs out. You're clearly not most people. Tell me — what made you stay?