The banquet was booked at a well-known eatery serving regional specialties. Stella spotted Alexander waiting for her at the door when she came downstairs. She turned to face Alexander, who spotted her too.

He gestured to her, "Stella, over here."

Stella approached. “I apologize, but there was a traffic jam. I'm running a little behind."

Alexander timidly stroked his head, seemingly still a little ashamed of what had transpired the night before. “It's okay. Mr. Conrad is still not here. The weather is chilly. Come with me inside."

Stella was escorted by Alexander to a VIP box containing a handful of his company's senior executives and managers. Alexander presented each...