While he spoke, Avery gave him a fixed look. She acknowledged that she had never heard someone say such things. Specifically, a male. It demonstrates Patrick's intelligence and maturity. She believed Patrick possessed the ability to express himself. She is well aware that Patrick is capable of saying anything like that based on what little she knows about him. He was a man of principles from the beginning.
She could therefore tell that his friend wasn't making anything up to support him or lying. Patrick was capable of expressing it clearly. That was quite impressive of him.
She swept her hair back and averted her gaze, disoriented by everything.