"You'll see." She shrugs a little. "Try reminding him that this isn't me, and our parents are here. It might help."

Shaun steps up beside her and drapes an arm over her shoulder. "Hey, George, who's this?"

Her posture shifts slightly. She's not exactly more open and welcoming, but neither is she as distant and detached as usual. She smiles at him. "This is Mahir, Shaun. You remember--we've worked together on a few articles."

He nods in acknowledgment. "That's right. Nice to meet you in person. You here for the thing too?"