[He straightens, and while his smile is still there, it becomes just a tad bit fainter.]

Mm.

[He supposes there's no point in lying, considering she knows who he's affiliated with.]

You are correct. This is how things turn out. I am here... for work. Not play. How sad that is, I admit, but here I am.

[A shrug of his shoulder.]

I should hate to entangle you in the details, Jackie, and make you even mildly complicit. No, you should enjoy the rest of your evening if you can. Do not mind me.