"A good firm, Sidley, an old firm. Also a huge one. I hope you'll be happy there," Futterman says. "We'll miss you," he adds, hoping he didn't sound perfunctory saying it. Paralegals come and go, their departure no big deal.

"I guess I'm an ambitious person," Stacy says. "Sidley's offering me more money. I also hope one day to be an office manager for a large firm."

"I think you're doing the right thing," Futterman says. "You're right to go for it."

"I'm glad, Mr Futterman, really glad you feel that way."

He pours her another glass of champagne, and one more for himself.