What does Esther 5:2 mean?

When the king saw Queen Esther standing in the courtyard, she found favor with him. He held out the gold scepter in his hand toward her. Esther walked up and touched the tip of the scepter. Esther 5:2 - Modern Text Bible

(The king welcomes Esther, signaling she is safe and allowed to speak. This is a crucial moment for her plan.)