Reborn: The Rookie Detective

Hannah, the little fox, half-jokingly and half-testingly plotted her scheme, which failed, and hung up the video call with satisfaction.

Jack continued his French cuisine. The method for making beef bourguignon was a bit complicated, and he couldn't find authentic Charolais beef, so he simply used high-quality beef tenderloin and slightly modified the preparation process.

If you remove very expensive ingredients like black truffles and caviar, many ingredients in French cuisine are actually quite affordable. Jack chose to focus more on the cooking process; otherwise, buying an authentic Breton lobster and simply boiling it would also be a fine meal.

Next was French onion soup, and finally, after making the Niçoise salad and cherry Basque cake, Jack breathed a sigh of satisfaction. The time was just right, and he just waited for the guest to arrive.

Although his master-level culinary skills couldn't produce legendary golden dishes that shimmered with light, they were enough to satisfy the discerning palates of most gourmets.

[A/n: So, how many completed food wars?...I watched only till the season where Nakiri Erina's family reunites with her mother's adopted son.]

Just as 8:30 arrived, the doorbell rang precisely on time, and a gaunt, bald old man in a conservative suit appeared at Jack's door.

Jack couldn't help but chuckle inwardly at the sight of the old man. He wondered if he could eventually gather all sorts of interesting characters for a game; that would be quite amusing.

[A/n: I don't understand what he is thinking, can anyone explain?]

"Excuse me, Mr. Tavelor, I am Ray King from the Treasury Department," the old man introduced himself formally, unaware of Jack's chaotic thoughts.

"It's an honor, please come in."

Jack's smile widened upon seeing the arrival of this benefactor.

Ray King entered the living room and, seeing the uniquely shaped table Jack had set up, a smile involuntarily appeared on his face.

"I didn't expect Mr. Tavelor to be so talented. The craftsmanship of this table is quite unique."

"Just call me Jack. It's just a small hobby. I also made the cabinets in the kitchen myself."

'This old man has a sharp eye'

Jack felt a chill. Although his woodworking skills weren't yet proficient, he had put a lot of effort into making this table. He not only used sturdy oak but also carved some delicate patterns on it that were not noticeable until you observe it closely but he noticed them at a glance.

"I often appraise antique furniture. As you can see, although the craftsmanship of this table is still a bit immature, it is unique and has its own style."

As the saying goes, when you give a gift, you must have something in mind. This guy's flattery was so loud, there was probably going to be a lot of trouble.

Jack took out two plates of pan-seared foie gras from the cooler as an appetizer. The Harlan Winery that Wesley brought last time came in handy. Although it was only Harlan Winery's second label, it was still quite valuable. Everyone only tasted it briefly before sealing it away when they came last time.

"This is the most delicious foie gras I've had on the West Coast," Ray said, squinting slightly as he savored the taste, offering a genuine compliment.

Although he hadn't strictly followed the traditional five-course French meal, Jack had included every course: appetizer, soup, hot starter, main course, and dessert.

After finishing the final dessert, cherry Basque cake, Ray couldn't help but sigh.

"It's such a shame you're an LAPD officer instead of a Michelin-starred chef," the old man quickly corrected himself, realizing his slip of the tongue.

"Of course, I didn't mean to belittle your profession, it's just that as a seasoned gourmet…"

Jack smiled and brewed a pot of black tea, setting out milk and sugar, gesturing for him to help himself.

"I understand what you mean. Maybe one day when I'm no longer a policeman, I really will consider opening a restaurant. Of course, you're always welcome to visit my home. In fact, compared to French cuisine, I'd rather invite my guests to try more diverse dishes."

"I'm very much looking forward to it. Before we get to the main topic, may I ask about your relationship with that person?"

Ray King took a small sip of his tea, his eyes friendly yet slightly scrutinizing — perhaps a natural trait of his profession.

Speaking to someone this age requires utmost vigilance; he's not afraid the other person won't believe him, but he's afraid this old fox will misunderstand.

Jack considered his words carefully before speaking.

"To be precise, I'm Chris's 'doctor,' currently providing him with some psychological counseling, and I'm also one of his few friends."

Jack deliberately used a more intimate term to address Christian Wolff. In the original series, Ray King's relationship with the accountant was quite delicate. Although they collaborated and knew each other's backgrounds, they had only met once, and there was an unspoken understanding and wariness between them.

This answer was clearly somewhat unexpected for Ray. He knew Jack was quite multi-talented, but he didn't expect that Jack could not only cook well but also have a side job as a doctor.

"Don't misunderstand, I don't practice medicine and never charge fees. It's just that I have some skills."

"With a little psychological suggestion, I can help him improve his sleep quality."

Ray King had a look of sudden realization, but it was unclear whether he genuinely believed it or was pretending.

Jack was too lazy to argue with this shrewd old fox about his fabricated theories. He didn't know much about this mysterious IRS director, and as the saying goes, the more you say, the more mistakes you make.

"Chris said you're in some trouble. I don't quite understand what the IRS would need a lowly patrolman for, but since you're his friend, I'll do my best to help."

His implication was clear: his relationship with Chris was closer than Jack's, so there was no need for probing; Jack was the one in a position to help.

Ray King's showed no embarrassment whatsoever at being pointed out for his probing and naturally continued Jack's line of thought, explaining his purpose.

"I have a subordinate who went silent during an undercover infiltration mission. It's been six weeks now. The latest intelligence indicates he was seen near the LA County Art Museum, but he hasn't contacted me. I need someone to help me find him."

Jack picked up the teapot, poured him some more black tea, and after a moment's thought, asked, "Since you're asking for my help, is there a problem within your organization, or do you suspect he's defected?"

Ray King's wrinkled face beamed even brighter: "I like smart young people like you. Have you considered joining the IRS?"

Jack shrugged. "Sorry, you're too late. Someone else has already invited me. Besides, I know nothing about financial and tax law, and I absolutely hate being an undercover agent."