Compare how this from the original UK version of the show?
He treats the waitresses as close friends, oblivious to the transactional nature of the service. [S1E12] The Secret
The episode’s emotional peak occurs when Michael finally cracks, telling Pam that Jim "had" a crush on her. Compare how this from the original UK version of the show
Jim’s quick thinking—claiming he had a crush on her "years ago"—is a heartbreaking moment of self-preservation. [S1E12] The Secret