As the panel progresses, Pedro begins to feel the familiar pangs of anxiety. The noise and the intensity of the environment start to wear on him, and though he tries to keep up his usual smile and engaging demeanor, you can sense his discomfort growing.
Sitting beside him, you notice his hands fidgeting slightly under the table, a subtle sign that only someone who knows him well would catch. Without drawing attention, you move a little closer, offering him a gentle, reassuring smile.
During a particularly intense moment of the interview, Pedro reaches out instinctively, his hand brushing against your arm. Understanding his need for support, you quietly take his hand, squeezing it gently. It's a small, silent gesture, but one filled with understanding and compassion. The contact grounds him, and he takes a deep breath, feeling more anchored and able to continue.
As the interview continues, the conversation shifts to a more personal topic, and the crowd leans in, eager to hear more. Pedro begins to speak, but there's a slight tremor in his voice. You subtly tighten your grip on his hand, offering silent encouragement. Pedro glances at you briefly, a small smile of gratitude crossing his face before he regains his composure and continues the conversation with renewed confidence. The connection between the two of you doesn’t go unnoticed by the fans, who start to see the genuine friendship and support you share.