After leaving the stage, I felt a rush of relief and excitement. I couldn't believe I had pulled it off.

"Lucas, I'm still so nervous," I admitted as I walked over to him.

He took my hand gently, "You have nothing to worry about - you were incredible up there."

Lucas's eyes sparkled with pride, and his sincerity made me smile, "I’ll take your word for it."

"Of course you should, because you're the best," Lucas said, his praise unrelenting.

I felt ...