Thanks for the thoughts.
Yes, MIA-MAD-CDG will be in business class on IB.
I have the option of MIA-CDG on AF, but it's not lie flat, so I will take the connection.
I have a business engagement that goes to noon. Yes, I could drive straight to MIA, but more likely I will wait until the weekend if I drive to MIA - I don't love the drive. The idea was to head right out from the seminar at noon.
I might also risk the weather, the flight isn't until 11:55 pm; there are 3 flights I could take, with the earliest I could make getting me there at 4:50.
I wish AA's policy wasn't so muddled. Not sure I'd trust a tweet response, I find you sometimes have to point out the Ts and Cs to the agent.
Wish I could just get it on one ticket.