I arrive home a little before 6:00. The temptation to stay and work late was overwhelming because I hadn’t gotten much done during the work day, but there was no way I could force myself to sit in that office when I knew that the most beautiful woman in the world was at my home.

I get out of the car and rush up the stairs, leaving my briefcase behind, knowing it will be brought in for me. I need to see Julia. I need to hold her in my arms and know that she is real, that she’s still ...