“And, thanks to Mr. Penrose, Emulsion Plastics is the leader of the reclaimed plastics industry. Mr. Penrose, we raise our glasses to you; thank you for the best year we’ve had, and here’s to many more better than this!” The auditorium erupted in wild applause. Some cheered, others whistled, and the host, Emulsion’s Chief Financial Officer and right-hand man to James Penrose, Cindy Martin, motioned for her boss to stand up. Smiling, James stood up, reaching for his wife’s hand and pulling her to her feet. He kissed her forehead in front of everyone and hugged her tightly. Cindy motioned to the podium. Even though he knew he was expected to speak, speeches were never James’ thing. His mentor, Gerald Moloski, taught him more than enough. Look people in their eyes when you are talking to them. It pays to be honest. And always admit when you need help. Look for the best people. And most importantly, being kind to others is the key to success. James never forgot.

“Thank you, Cindy, for the kind words, hard work, and dedication to Emulsion Plastics. Leaders can see visions and dreams. But you? The stakeholders and shareholders of our corporation? You are the reason for our success. Without your work and countless hours of buying and selling recycled materials, Emulsion Plastics would not be a reality. Where’s our sales team? Kelli? Addison? Stand up, please.” Two striking young women sat at the same table. They stood in unison, one wearing a white sleeveless evening gown, the other a short, black mini skirt. “These two navigated a male-dominated sales force, selling our upcycled products to major suppliers like Coca-Cola,” Kelli nodded at James, “and Johnson & Johnson,” Addison bowed to James. Bowing gave off a more regal look than Kelli’s nod. Kelli’s smug little smile and wink at Addison said as much. “We’re grateful they left the pharmaceutical industry to work for us. Isn’t that right, Cindy?” Cindy nodded at James. James’ wife, Morgan, squeezed his hand tightly, smiling and showing her teeth. Morgan worked as an attorney representing low-income families suffering from the eviction process. Housing in the Portland metro area was overrun with what her clients would call ‘slum lords,’ shortcutting the processes and doing highly illegal things, like giving two weeks’ notice to vacate a three-bedroom home. She didn’t lose, and her pleasant demeanor meant judges sided with her more often than her colleagues fighting her. She knew who her biggest competitors were as well as their weak spots. She was quiet and softspoken until crossed. And if she was in court? She knew the laws and how they supported her clients. Mogan couldn’t be prouder of her husband. Applause stopped James from speaking, allowing him to take a small sip of his champagne. He toasted the crowd. “So, again. Thank you all for a wonderful year with Emulsion Plastics!” The applause was deafening. Morgan leaned into James, James kissing the top of her head.