* "His heart was a drum solo." This compares Victor's anxious heart to the fast and loud beat of a drum solo, effectively conveying his nervousness.
* "He had been practicing his smile in the mirror." This is a metaphorical comparison of Victor's smile to a practiced skill, suggesting his conscious effort to appear confident and cool.
* "His palms were slick with sweat." This is a metaphorical comparison of sweat to a slippery substance, highlighting Victor's anxiety and discomfort.
* "He felt his face burn with embarrassment." This compares embarrassment to a physical sensation of burning, emphasizing the intensity of his feelings.
These metaphors, while subtle, contribute to the story's effectiveness by creating a relatable and vivid picture of Victor's inner world.