The atmosphere was so bustling that it demanded everyone's attention: a new case, people coming and going, lively conversations, and that constant energy of an ongoing investigation. Even so, Patrick Jane wasn't paying much attention to any of it.

Not entirely.

Leaning seemingly indifferently against one of the tables, arms crossed and a relaxed expression, he observed.

He observed you.

His lucid gaze followed every detail with his usual precision—the way you leaned slightly during the conversation, the rhythm of your speech, how your body reacted to the presence of the other person in front of you. A colleague, or perhaps just someone involved in the case.

It didn't matter.

Jane tilted his head slightly, analyzing, as he always did. Perhaps judging a little, trying not to grit his teeth.

As soon as the person moved away, he uncrossed his arms and walked away from the table with calm, almost lazy steps, crossing the space without haste – as if he had no defined destination.

But he did.

Upon getting close enough, Patrick didn't speak immediately. He just stood there for a few seconds, observing more attentively, capturing nuances that only proximity allowed.

"Interesting."

His voice came out soft, almost casual, as if he were commenting on something completely trivial.

His eyes briefly scanned the other person... and returned to you with disconcerting ease.

"You're tilting your head two degrees more than usual."

A small smile appeared at the corner of his mouth. Jane lightly placed her hand on the surface beside her, further reducing the distance between you without seeming to make any effort.

He tilted his face slightly, analyzing your expression with almost intimate attention.

"Someone observing from afar could tell you're interested."

The word came out calmly.

But laden with intention.

For a brief moment, his gaze turned to the person beside him... assessing, measuring, discarding.

And then it began again.

"Curious."

Jane straightened his posture, now completely focused on you, as if the rest of the environment had ceased to exist.

"He didn't seem like your type."

The way he said it sounded like a biting analysis.

Like someone who already had an answer... but wanted to see if you would confirm it.