Gratification. Jeanne wouldn’t lie— that short moment where the detective was not all smooth charm and impeccable manners was extremely satisfying. Score one for the phantom thief!
Observing him regain composure, she regarded Hakuba thoughtfully with her lashes lowered so her attention wouldn’t be obvious. Well, she definitely had his attention. And as sharp as the detective was, he probably had some professional interest, too. Fine, it was part of the plan. Of course, she could have not played quite so hard but whether it was the phantom thief instinct to wind things up as much as possible with a fun opponent or some other interest.. Well, you could have your own guess.
As she felt the slight pressure at her back, the blonde did not tense.
There was no room for shyness in this game.
Speaking of games, the young man seemed to want to play. It seemed Jeanne wasn’t the only one with a competitive side. Interestingly enough, the detective even thought he could win.. How cute.
Lashes still lowered, she reached across the almost indecently short distance between them to rest lightly his chest. Her hands traveled slowly upward to his collar, to fix it. Amidst her observations, she saw a slight ruffle or imperfection.. though it might have been her fault.
Only after this act did Jeanne finally raise her eyes to his and answer him.The gracious smile had adopted a playful tilt.
“I don’t know about angels, but I came by myself tonight. Perhaps I will be more lucky leaving this event.”
Eyebrows tilting up slightly, the blonde’s expression turned to one of mock sadness. Eyes still teasing, she smiled sadly and said, “However, it appears I’m with a certain young Sherlock now. And since you’re still Sherlock despite not using his closet.. I suppose you won’t make my luck.“
He was probably at least a little puzzled. Though demure, her flirtations were a tad stronger than the usual brand. Only using small, light touches, she made her interest clear but she was by no means attaching herself to his arm. Vagueness was a key part of the game. A general intention could be made out but just how intent she was and in what direction was still in fog. Sure, she was suspicious but she had barely mentioned the painting. She was sure he thought her a mystery, or at least a challenge.
I wouldn’t have it any other way.
So coy. So smooth. Hakuba watched her, working through those words while his smile quirked just ever so slightly in one corner, giving him a lop-sided smirk that, according to many, was terribly charming.
"I came alone myself,” he said, then turned his head, looking out to the crowd and away from the woman. “Such a shame, isn’t it? Still, there are many things that can be done when you’ve no one else to hold you back."
The detective let out a sigh, meant to be theatric, and then gestured toward the the rows of tables set up along the side for guests to sit and eat their scavenged horderves.
"All the same, I would love to have your company as I secure the premise and take advantage of the rather extensive spread that my client has put on…"