My schedule was freer than it had been in months.

Not because life had suddenly become kinder, but because I had made a decision. A deliberate one. I had instructed Gloria to clear all avoidable engagements, defer secondary meetings, and politely decline invitations that existed solely to maintain appearances. I needed space. Real space. Mental space. Strategic space.

The Manhattan Women’s Club Annual Ball was nine days away.

Nine days, and while progress had been made, it was not enough. Not ...