Up close, it's easier to see the little changes in Neal's appearance--the delicate arrival of crows feet, the deepening blush of white at his temples. There's also an ease to him in person that's a sizable shift from the tense energy he carried the last time they saw each other face-to-face. Between that and the turtleneck sweater and jeans he's opted for over a three-piece suit, he's clearly let a few anxieties go.

"Yeah, I just figured we were overdue for a deliberate in-person visit."