Though Fish is the main force behind bringing her into the firm (amid the protests of the associates), it is John Cage who immediately becomes “drawn to her” romantically.
Their relationship struggles mostly due to John's cautious reluctance to go on dates anywhere other than the bar on the ground floor of the building that also houses their firm.
[9] Nelle is initially treated with hostility by the firm's other female employees, particularly fellow associate Georgia Thomas and Ally's secretary, Elaine Vassal.
[16] Shortly thereafter, she enters a charity auction on the firm's behalf and is obligated to go on a date with Dr. Greg Barrett, the man who places the winning bid on her.
Though she initially acts dismissively towards Greg, she agrees to spend the day with him and in that brief time develops uncharacteristic, passionate, romantic feelings for him in spite of herself.
[17] During this season, she also mends fences with John when she implores him to help her try her father's case, after Mr. Porter is discharged from his job as a teacher for claiming to be Santa Claus.
Nelle must ultimately face the fact that his delusion is connected with his distant relationship with her, and she begins to work toward making him a bigger part of her life.
She watches with amusement as chance transforms Ling from Cage & Fish associate to judge presiding over a television courtroom procedural.
[19] When John Cage disappears unexpectedly while struggling with his unrequited romantic feelings for Ally, Nelle expresses considerable concern for his well-being.
[23] Nelle shares her co-workers’ skepticism when Richard Fish decides to marry new associate Liza Bump, with whom she has a hostile relationship.
[25] Nelle also displays a degree of chemistry with fellow associate Wilson Jade, who is hired by Liza on her first day at Cage & Fish.