Emily was in the middle of brainstorming a new line for next spring when Katie strolled into the design studio, humming a jaunty tune.

“Well, if it isn’t the lady about town!” Emily greeted her. “Are things going well?”

“Excellent,” Katie reported. “I’ve gone on a date with each candidate, and I’m still undecided… but the dates were fun.”

“That’s the spirit!” Emily said. She stuck to her resolve not to try to influence ...