"I'm nervous," I blurted out, needing to say something before the silence stretched too long. "About all of this."
Dominic's expression softened. "That's completely normal. But you're doing brilliantly already. Sarah's been gushing about your potential since before you walked through that door."
"Really?"
"Really." He reached out, then seemed to think better of it, hand dropping back to his side. "You have natural talent, Jasmine. I saw it back at the academy and I see it now. All you need is confidence in yourself."
The gentleness in his voice made something in my chest tighten. Christopher had never spoken to me this way, never offered reassurance without expecting something in return.
I swallowed hard. "Thank you."
"No thanks necessary. Just facts." His smile turned teasing again.
