The panoramic view of the New York skyline from my office usually had a calming effect, but today, it did little to ease the knot of anticipation in my stomach. I paced before the floor-to-ceiling windows, awaiting Ellie's arrival. Despite my usual cool demeanor, today was different; today was personal.

As the door to my office swung open and Ellie strode in, I was struck, as always, by her presence. Today, though, she looked more formidable than ever, clad in sharp businesswear that ...