"All those little things that help with nerves."
She glanced at Maya. "You'll make sure he has everything he needs? Water, quiet space, whatever helps him feel comfortable?"
Maya's jaw tightened.
Levi spoke before she could. "I don't need anything."
"Oh." Victoria blinked, her expression shifting to something that might have been concern or condescension. "Are you sure? Most artists, especially on their first major showcase, prefer to have at least a few minutes to center themselves. There's no shame in taking time to prepare. In fact, it's usually the smart choice."
"I'm prepared."
The words were a statement of fact delivered with the same tone someone might use to confirm a dinner reservation.
Victoria's smile flickered. "Well. I'm sure you know best."
She excused herself, drifting back toward the tables where other industry guests had started to settle.
Maya waited until Victoria was out of earshot. "That woman…"
