You did well illustrating the trap they're in here. Jim's efforts to separate himself are bound to fail because they're noticeable and confusing and upsetting to Pam, and Jim in addition to not wanting to separate himself much in the first place can't bring himself to maintain these efforts when they're confusing and upsetting to Pam. (Of course the good news is that they're confusing and upsetting to Pam because she loves him too, but, you know, we've got a ways to go before we get there.) Tough.

Also, Michael's version of Home Alone sounds VERY Michael.