“Well, you have to look at capital allocation,” he said, his voice speeding up into his usual corporate rhythm.

“My business school tuition deposit is a direct investment in measurable market equity.

That MBA is going to launch my consulting firm.”

“She bought her plane ticket six months ago, Derek.”

“And she pivoted when the numbers changed,” Derek said.

“The Department of Defense covers your housing, meals, and medical care.

I’m operating in the real private sector, where cash flow matters.”

“She gave me eighteen hours’ notice,” I said.