Her eyes widened slightly. Detective. He’s so young though? Ahh, probably another police force kid. Just when you think getting a separate body got you away from one detective’s kid, you run into another. And this one is so composed and rather a bit too familiar with this sort of game. A pity about the detective part, he’s cute. Ah well, it’s best not to play the hunting game when I’m hunting for information. Let’s smooth this off.
“You may use my first name to address me,” she said with a smile as she allowed him to kiss her hand. After he had done so, she squeezed lightly, just barely keeping a grip on the hand that had just held hers. She looked up into his eyes with her violet ones as her smile turned up playfully at sandy-haired young man.
“That beautifully explains the outfit. But it doesn’t quite illuminate on why you’re keeping away from the ‘joys’ of the party as you seem dressed for the occasion under it.”
She gestured with her other hand to the dance floor people seemed to be gravitating towards.
“I’m sure the ladies would miss you on the dance floor, if your manners say anything about your dancing.”
Jeanne let go of his hand as gently as she had taken hold of it.
“Why don’t you prevent that sad happening now? I’ll even stay to behold such a noble feat.”
If he stays, I’ll observe him. Who knows what this young Sherlock has up his sleeve. Regular lasers and traps she could do, but having a sharp detective on her tail would complicate matters. If not, then it’s about time for me to retire shortly for a stroll — for some less high society air and to go over the mapping of the area.
So much said in such a short interaction thus far. Hakuba looked from her hand to her face and noted her eyes, wondering if violet and mystery went hand in hand. But as alluring as this Jeanne was, she couldn’t possibly compare to one who wore a matching gaze.
The informality said so much. Jeanne was friendly. Personable. Someone that he would likely select for companionship at a normal benefit or charity event. But here, on the case, everything about her rose red flags. She was observing him, studying him, just as he did of her. Her flattery and words were persuasive, carefully chosen to spur action.
But he would not fall prey. He would use her first name, with proper honorifics, but would not extend the same courtesy. He would flirt, but only passively. And until he was certain that she was not a threat, he would use her to garner further information from those around them.
“Alas, miss Jeanne,” Hakuba replied with a mix of amusement and false regret. “While I can, and do, on occasion, dance… I’m not here to entertain. It’s my duty to gather details and protect what my client has asked me to. And, currently, you’ve captured my attention. So the only way that I’ll move to the dance floor is if you accompany me. I’ll leave the choice to you."
Yes, all professional. Not self-indulgent at all.