Returning to her own post, she gently commented, "I'm sure it'll go well. You have an excellent crew, and you already know my opinion about yourself." She'd happily repeat it if he needed the reminder.

She set the bowl of spices aside and set to work on chopping her own vegetables. "Is there anything I can do to help?" she asked carefully. "With the visit, or trying to make you less nervous?" They needed the visit to go well, and if there was something she could do, she wouldn't hesitate.