There's another unconscious step back, a grimace, and she holds her tablet close to her chest, as if it can protect her from him, force him to stay away or something. It can't, of course.

"But... what do you need to know me for?" she asks, cringing just slightly, and shaking her head. "Why does it matter if we know each other, if I already have my sponsors? Isn't that your job, to help me get them? I don't need your help."